Prep Time

　　15 minutes

　　Editor's note: The recipe and introductory text below are from The Skinny: How to Fit Into Your Little Black Dress Forever by Melissa Clark and Robin Aronson.

　　Use a soft whole grain loaf for this recipe — anything crusty or crunchy would distract from the smooth, custardy texture of the French toast. Papayas are an underappreciated fruit that deserve more play. We chose to pair them with this recipe because their juicy, bright flavor is a nice contrast to the fried bread, and, well, because we love them. But feel free to substitute whatever fruit you like.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings

　　1 medium papaya

　　1/2 cup milk

　　1 large egg

　　1 tablespoon sugar

　　1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

　　Pinch salt

　　4 slices whole grain bread (1/2 to 3/4 inch thick)

　　1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, plus additional, if necessary

　　Maple syrup, for serving, optional

　　

Step 1

1. Peel the papaya and cut it in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to remove the seeds. Slice the papaya into cubes (you should have about 1 cup).

　　

Step 2

2. In a large shallow bowl whisk together the milk, egg, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, soaking both sides so that the bread is well coated and has absorbed the custard.

　　

Step 3

3. Melt the butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the bread and cook, working in batches, if necessary, until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Add additional butter to the pan if the bread seems to be sticking.

　　

Step 4

4. Transfer the French toast to two serving plates and drizzle with maple syrup, if desired. Top with the chopped papaya and serve.

　　Reprinted with permission from The Skinny: How to Fit into Your Little Black Dress Forever by Melissa Clark and Robin Aronson. © 2006 Meredith Books