Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Vietnam! This Easy Vietnamese Papaya Salad is not just a recipe - it's a flavor explosion that combines crisp, fresh ingredients with a tantalizing dressing that will make your mouth water. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a dish that's simultaneously refreshing, spicy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Whether you're a curious foodie or a seasoned home chef, this recipe promises to be your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium green papaya, shredded
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the green papaya by washing it thoroughly, then use a sharp grater or mandoline to shred the papaya into thin, long strips. Place the shredded papaya in a large mixing bowl.
- Grate the carrot using the same grater or mandoline, creating thin julienne-like strips. Add the shredded carrot to the bowl with the papaya.
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, then add them to the papaya and carrot mixture.
- Chop the fresh cilantro leaves finely and sprinkle over the salad ingredients.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- If using chili peppers, thinly slice them into rings or small pieces. For less heat, remove the seeds before slicing.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the papaya salad and gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts over the top of the salad for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Serve immediately at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- Choose a green (unripe) papaya for the best texture - it should be firm and crisp, not soft or sweet.
- Use a sharp mandoline or grater to create uniform, thin strips for the best salad consistency.
- For maximum flavor, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes after dressing to allow the ingredients to marinate.
- Adjust the chili peppers to your heat tolerance - remove seeds for less spice or add more for extra kick.
- Fresh ingredients are key: use fresh lime juice and recently chopped herbs for the most vibrant flavor.
- Toast the peanuts yourself for an extra layer of nutty depth if you have time.
- This salad is best served immediately, so prepare just before serving for optimal crunch and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
