Select prickly pear cactus with plump, beautiful fruit. Using tongs, gather 12–15 ripe tunas from the cactus. I always enjoy communing with the plant before taking any fruit. Gather with an open heart, focus on the task, and ground yourself in the process.

Rinse the fruit well. Using tongs and a sharp knife, peel away the outer skin and spines; discard. Add peeled fruit to a blender with 1–2 cups water and juice of a lime, lemon, or orange. Add honey or agave, if using. Blend well. Strain with fine mesh or cheesecloth. Refrigerate in a tightly covered jar for up to one week, or freeze in ice trays and add to water or tea on a hot day.