Posted by kathypatalsky on Babble.com
I have a serious papaya habit. I crave them. That sweet, silky, pink tropical fruit transports me to a relaxing island oasis - well, at least until my busy morning begins. My papaya drill: I reach for my half papaya that I have carefully placed in the fridge the night before. I scoop out most of the tiny black seeds. A few are OK – and add a peppery kick. I drizzle in some maple syrup – a squirt of lime on top – and dive into my papaya bowl - spoon first. No real “bowl” required. But a few days ago I decided to change things up and see what happens when I blend my raw papaya into a frosty cool smoothie. This Maple Lime Papaya Protein Smoothie was the delicious end result. I even added in a few scoops of hemp protein powder to make it a truly energizing, well-rounded morning sip. Get my recipe!..
papaya smoothie with lime and maple
I tried to make this smoothie “fresh” – meaning I wanted to use all freshly cut fruit – but instead I ended up using a few frozen foods as well to add to the frostiness.
In the past I have tried juicing my papaya – to get my fix. And really, I didn’t enjoy that too much. I really like that creamy soft texture of the papaya – and while fresh whole papaya communicates that best – the smoothie did a pretty good job as well.
Plus this smoothie was a lot easier to eat at my desk than a juicy, messy papaya bowl.
I loved this smoothie and will for sure be making it again!
Maple Lime Papaya Protein Smoothie
makes one tall glass or two short
1 3/4 cup fresh chopped papaya, seeds and skin removed
1 banana (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup frozen strawberries or peaches
1/4 cup ice
1 Tbsp maple syrup (I like grade B)
2 small limes, juiced
1/2 tsp lime zest
dash cayenne (optional)
2 scoops protein powder (I used a raw hemp brand)
As Needed to get blender moving: fresh squeezed orange juice
garnish: fresh lime zest, drizzle of maple, slice of papaya
note: for a frostier smoothie, use a frozen banana. For a more fresh, soft smoothie – use a fresh banana.
To Make: Blend. Garnish, Serve!