• Rinse the papaya under cool running water to remove any dirt. Dry with a clean towel.
• Place the papaya on a cutting board and lay it on its side. Use a sharp knife to trim the ends off each side. Place cut-side down to create a sturdy base.

Method 1 - Peel the skin first

• Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, peeling down the fruit lengthwise. Alternatively, run a knife down the skin lengthwise, following the natural curvature of the papaya. Work all the way around, removing as little flesh as possible.
• Use a spoon to scoop out the black seeds and discard them.
• Slices: Cut into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick slices crosswise through the narrowest part of the fruit.

  Wedges: Cut each half lengthwise into strips about 1/2 to 1-inch thick.

  Cubes: Cut each wedge into 1/2 to 1-inch cubes or smaller as desired.

Method 2 - Cut, then peel

• Cut the papaya in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the black seeds and discard them.
• Wedges: Cut each half lengthwise into strips about 1/2 to 1-inch thick. Use a paring knife to separate the flesh from the skin, removing as little flesh as possible.

  Cubes: Cut each wedge into 1/2 to 1-inch cubes or smaller as desired.