Also called nopales, Cactus Pads are the young, fleshy paddles of the prickly pear cactus and have a texture similar to okra (soft, slippery, slightly crunchy), and a flavor that combines green peppers and asparagus. Wrap in paper, then plastic and refrigerate up to 2 weeks. Saute pieces with diced poblanos, white onions. chorizo and cilantro.