Recipe Sifter

The health benefits of green papaya exceed those of the ripe variety. Raw green papaya is packed with vitamins, enzymes and phytonutrients. It contains vital nutrients including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E and B. However, perhaps the most important health property of green papaya is its ability to improve digestion and the uptake of nutrients, raising enzyme levels and improving assimilation, and thus also strengthening the immune system. Green papaya contains two of the most powerful plant proteolytic enzymes: papain and chymopapain. These enzymes excel at breaking down proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as aiding healthy digestion. Papain can only be found in the papaya fruit and is more effective than pepsin produced by our own stomachs.

This sunrise margarita looks so pretty, and the two layers of different flavors are both absolutely so good.

Thai green papaya salad layered with iceberg lettuce, cucumber, tomato, scallions and cilantro, dressed in a chili-lime-soy sauce with crushed roasted peanuts. A fresh, no-cook Thai salad ready in 15 minutes.

Fresh tropical fruit daiquiris blended with light rum, lime juice, and your choice of passion fruit, mango, papaya, or guava. Ready in 15 minutes, serves 6. Your new go-to party cocktail.

Tropical quesadillas filled with ripe banana, green chilies, and Monterey Jack cheese with a squeeze of lime. A sweet-savory snack or dessert ready in 15 minutes.

Fresh two-tomato salsa with Roma and green tomatoes, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. A no-cook, chunky salsa with bright tangy flavor that pairs with chips, grilled chicken, or fish.

Watermelon cubes with a spicy lime dipping sauce made from lime juice, salt, and hot pepper sauce. A three-ingredient summer snack ready in 10 minutes.