Monday, June 13, 2016
Technically classified as a berry, papaya is known for its sweet and rich flavor. In addition to being filled with nutrients, this tropical fruit is also filled with dozens of tiny black seeds in the center that are edible, with a spicy and peppery taste. Papaya’s vibrant summer color and wide range of health benefits are just a few reasons why they’re our food of the month!
Papayas are an excellent source of vitamin C, which will help your body fight off infections and support a healthy immune system. It is also rich in vitamins that will help keep your skin, hair and eyes healthy. Additionally, eating papaya can help relieve occasional constipation since it is high in fiber and water content, making it a great digestion aid.
When you’re selecting papaya, look for the ones with reddish orange skin that are soft. You can enjoy papaya itself by scooping out the seeds, or throwing it in fruit salad. It also makes a great addition to salsa and smoothies. Check out these healthy papaya recipes that are sure to make a perfect summertime snack!
Nutritional Information
1 small-sized papaya
- Calories: 67
- Fat: 0.4 g (0%)
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 13 mg
- Potassium: 286 mg (8%)
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g (5%)
- Protein: .7 g (1%)
- Vitamin A: 29%
- Vitamin C: 149%
- Calcium: 3%
- Magnesium: 8%
- Iron: 2%
- Vitamin B-6: 5%
- Vitamin D: 0%
- Vitamin B-12: 0%
Papaya Smoothie
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped peeled seeded papayas
- 1 cup chilled pineapple juice
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 1⁄2 cup sliced banana
- 4 ice cubes
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in blender.
- Puree until smooth.
- Pour into 2 tall glasses.
Papaya Salsa
Ingredients
- 2 pounds papaya (2 preferably pink-fleshed strawberry variety), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch dice
- 1 1/2 cups diced (1/4 inch) fresh pineapple (from 1/2 small pineapple)
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Stir together all ingredients