Choose ripe papaya (yellow-orange skin, slightly soft to the touch, fragrant)
Wash the papaya under running water
Cut the papaya in half lengthwise
Scoop out and discard the seeds
Peel the skin with a knife or use a vegetable peeler
Cut into slices, cubes, or bite-size pieces
Eat as-is or chill it for a colder snack
Add to fruit salads with lime juice and a pinch of salt
Blend into smoothies with yogurt or milk
Add to oatmeal or yogurt bowls
Use in salsas or salads with lime, onion, cilantro, and tomatoes
For unripe (green) papaya, cook or use in savory dishes before eating
Store cut papaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3–5 days
Discard papaya that smells off, has mold, or is overly mushy