Food challenge: Papaya
Transport yourself to tropical destinations by preparing the recipes below featuring papaya, this week's food challenge.
During these long winters, I often dream about tropical destinations with white sandy beaches, fruity drinks in my hand, and the flavors of the tropics on my lips. Since I am not able to do that, I just have to settle for eating my way there instead.
I have come to find out that buying papaya at the commissary is a lot cheaper than buying a warm-destination ticket (shocking I know, right?). So if you are like me and want to start thinking about sunshine on your skin and sand between your toes, try this #IDFoodChallenge and share your favorite papaya recipes with us on Facebook or Instagram.
Sweet Papaya Smoothie
InDependent Original Recipe
1 ½ cup papaya, cubed
¾ cup pineapple, cubed
1 banana, chopped
1 cup plain yogurt
½ tablespoon chia seeds
Place all ingredients into a blender. Blend until smooth.
Try freezing the bananas so that when you blend them the smoothie will be cool and refreshing, instead of using ice cubes.
This recipe is really sweet and is great as a dessert. I don’t recommend it as a morning staple.
Since my stomach can’t handle ice cream, I froze a small cup in the freezer to have as a substitute.
Papaya and Pineapple Muffins
via Women's Health Magazine
I substituted coconut oil for the canola oil and honey for agave nector. You can do the same if you prefer.
These are great to give as a gift or just to have on hand for an on-the-go meal in the morning. I grab one as I rush out the door.
Spicy Papaya-Carrot Salsa
via Martha Stewart
I wasn’t able to find any Scotch bonnet chiles or small chayote, so I just used jalapeños for the chiles and bell peppers for the chayote. Add more jalapeños if you like a little more fire in your salsa, a little less if you don’t.
This is great over any of your favorite chips, rice, or your favorite meats.