I don't know what it is lately but I just can't get enough of papayas! They remind me of warmer weather but they also contain a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. They are a rich source of antioxidants, contain vitamins B and C as well as potassium, copper, magnesium and a whole lot of fiber. They have been thought to aid in cardiovascular health as well as provide some protection against colon cancer while aiding in healing trauma. Who knew papayas had so many powerful benefits!

Papaya is actually very versatile, usually we split it open and dig in but tonight I wanted to create a savory roasted papaya. All of the roasted papaya recipes that I have encountered were used in desserts; topped with brown sugars and butters. I wanted something healthy that could be combined with other flavors, relying on its natural sweetness but not enhancing it too much.

Out came this delightful recipe with roasted brussel sprouts, tomatoes, and pecans with the zing of lime and ginger, the heat of cayenne and the sweetness of maple syrup.

I hope that you enjoy, I know that I did!

Lime and Ginger Roasted Papaya with Brussel Sprouts, Tomatoes, and Pecans

Serves 2

1 Papaya, halved, seeds reserved for garnish

1 tsp Ginger

1 tsp Cayenne Pepper

1 tsp Garlic Powder

1 tbs + 1 tsp Olive Oil

1/2 Lime

1 cup Brussel Sprouts, quartered

3 Tomatoes, quartered

1/2 cup Pecans

Pink Himalayan Sea Salt

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Cut Papaya in half, removing the seeds and saving a few for garnish. Stir together the garlic, ginger, cayenne and a pinch of sea salt. Lightly oil the insides of the papayas with the 1 tsp of olive oil. Sprinkle each side with half of your spice mixture. squeeze half of the lime over the two sides and place cut side down in a baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes of until the cut side has browned.

Meanwhile, prepare the brussel sprouts and tomatoes, quartering each, then tossing in the remainder of olive oil and sprinkling some sea salt. Place in a baking dish and place in the oven as well, roasting along with the papaya.

Remove the papaya from the oven and place each half on a plate. Turn the oven onto broil and add the pecans to the brussel sprouts and tomatoes, broil for a few minutes until the vegetables have browned and the nuts are toasted. Divide the brussel sprouts and tomatoes between the two halves of papaya, squeeze the remainder of the lime over top and drizzle with maple syrup. Enjoy and healthy eating!