Thai Papaya Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the crunchiness of fresh vegetables with the tangy and slightly spicy dressing. The mix of papaya, pak choi, green beans, and peanuts creates a delightful texture, while the dressing brings a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and umami flavors. It's a dish that embodies the essence of Thai cuisine and is perfect for a light meal or side dish.
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Ingredients
Salad
small firm Papaya (peeled & deseeded)1
cocktail tomatoes (halved)1cup
bulbs pak choi (diagonally sliced)2
cucumber (deseeded & diagonally sliced)1cup
green beans (pounded with back of a knife)1cup
spring onions (julienne)1cup
plain peanuts (gently toasted)1cup
Mint Chiffonade2tbsp
Basil chiffonade2tbsp
Coriander leaves2tbsp
Dressing
apple cider vinegar3tbsp
light soy sauce4tbsp
fish sauce1tbsp
lime juice1
sugar2tbsp
water3tbsp
red chilli (deseeded & finely chopped)1tsp
ginger (minced)1tsp
garlic clove (minced)1/2tsp
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
101.3kcal (5.06%)
Protein
4.0g (8.1%)
Carbs
10.6g (3.87%)
Sugars
4.7g (9.3%)
Healthy Fat
4.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Thai Papaya Salad
Prepare the dressing
- Step 1
Place the dressing ingredients into a mug and microwave until boiling to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Step 2
Mix well until the sugar has dissolved.
- Step 3
Refrigerate until completely cold.
Prepare the salad
- Step 1
Cut the papaya into chunks or thick strips and place into a mixing bowl.
- Step 2
Add the pak choi, tomatoes, spring onions, pounded green beans, cucumber slices, mint, basil and half of the toasted peanuts. Mix well, being careful not to bruise the papaya.
- Step 3
Pour the cold dressing over the salad and mix again.
- Step 4
Transfer the salad to a platter and decant any leftover dressing into a small jug.
- Step 5
Sprinkle the rest of the toasted peanuts over the salad and garnish with coriander leaves.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
101.3kcal (5.06%)
Protein
4.0g (8.1%)
Carbs
10.6g (3.87%)
Sugars
4.7g (9.3%)
Healthy Fat
4.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.8g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the papaya is firm to maintain its texture in the salad.
Toast the peanuts gently to enhance their flavor without burning them.
Refrigerating the dressing allows the flavors to meld together for a more balanced taste.
Use a sharp knife to julienne the spring onions for a clean and professional look.
FAQS
Can I use ripe papaya for this recipe?
No, it is best to use firm, unripe papaya to maintain the crunchy texture of the salad.
What can I substitute for fish sauce?
You can use soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for fish sauce, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving to keep the vegetables fresh and crisp.
Is this salad spicy?
The salad has a mild spice from the red chili, but you can adjust the quantity to suit your taste.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, you can add other crunchy vegetables like carrots or cucumbers to enhance the texture and flavor.
Private Chef Anna
(@chefanna)
I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I am self-taught and have an extreme passion for various international cuisines. I have fallen in love with teaching others the skills that I have learnt, inspiring them through creative cooking.
...Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia