10 Guilt-Free Recipes from The Skinny

French Toast

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 and 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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
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

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).

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.

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.

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

Nutrition Facts per serving: 393 calories, 13g protein, 59g carbohydrate, 13g fat (5g saturated), 7g fiber