Fresh Papaya & Lime Agua Fresca

I think papayas are one of the sexiest yet least appreciated fruits around. They have gorgeous, silky orange flesh, a delicate flavor, and significant healing properties. Papayas are best when they are perfectly ripe and the fruit yields easily to gentle pressure. Choose the larger variety (called Maradol) from Mexico and Central America as opposed to the ones from Hawaii, which sadly are often genetically modified. Lime brings out the papaya’s sweet flavor in this refreshing drink.

INGREDIENTS:

MAKES 4.5 CUPS

• 2 cups coarsely chopped peeled fresh papaya

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1½ cups water

• 1 cup ice

• 20 drops liquid stevia, or more to taste

• A handful of fresh mint leaves(optional)

DIRECTIONS:

1 Blend all of the ingredients until silky smooth.

Notes:

This drink can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

And don’t toss those papaya seeds—see the Pantry (page 164) for more details and other inspirations (like papaya’s unique power to support digestive health and glowing skin!).

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