Nopales are a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine. They are the edible pads of the prickly pear cactus and are often used in salads, tacos, and soups. However, there are several synonyms that are also used to describe this tasty ingredient. Some of these include cactus pads, prickly pear pads, and nopalitos. These synonyms are useful when searching for recipes or ordering food in Spanish-speaking countries. Additionally, nopales are known for their health benefits such as being rich in vitamins and minerals, so incorporating them into your diet can be a great way to improve your overall health.