Papaya Smoothie Recipe

Prep papaya and banana

Peel the papaya, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then chop enough papaya to measure 2 cups. Peel and slice one banana. If using frozen papaya, measure frozen pieces and allow 1–2 minutes at room temperature to slightly loosen if stuck together.

Layer ingredients

Add to the blender in this order: milk (to help blades move), Greek yogurt, chopped papaya, sliced banana, honey or maple syrup, lime juice, and vanilla extract. This order helps with smoother blending.

Add ice and seeds

Add 1 cup ice cubes and, if using, 1 tsp chia seeds for texture and nutrition.

Secure the blender lid. Start blending on low speed for 10–15 seconds to combine, then increase to high for 30–45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add up to 1/4 cup additional milk and blend 10–15 seconds more. If too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a few chunks of frozen papaya and re-blend briefly.

Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness or acidity: add an additional 1/2 tbs honey or 1/2 tsp lime juice if needed; blend briefly to incorporate any additions.

Pour the smoothie into two 12-oz (about 360 ml) glasses or one large 24-oz glass.

Garnish each glass with a papaya slice or wedge and 2 mint leaves. Serve immediately with an optional lime wedge on the rim.