Papaya Smoothie (Batida de Lechosa)

A batida de lechosa will keep you nice and cool on a hot day, and may also become a favorite summer dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 large ripe papaya (about 4 cups chopped)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed ice
• Lime wedges, for garnish

Directions

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. Peel the papaya using a knife or vegetable peeler.
3. Cut the papaya in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
4. Coarsely chop the flesh.
5. Place the papaya chunks, milk, lime juice and zest, sugar, vanilla, and ice into a blender or food processor.
6. Mix on high speed for 20 to 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and thick.
7. Pour the smoothie into tall frosted glasses. Garnish with lime wedges and serve at once.