Name: Green Papaya Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded green papaya (unripe papaya); ½ cup shredded carrot (optional, for color and sweetness); ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; ¼ cup Thai basil or mint, chopped; 2 scallions, sliced; 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped; 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (or to taste); 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan version); 1 tsp maple syrup or palm sugar; 1 garlic clove, finely minced; ½ tsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang); Optional: 1 tsp grated ginger for warmth

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Introduction

Green Papaya Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that balances crisp textures with tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Perfect as a light meal or a zesty side, this salad highlights the unique taste of unripe papaya combined with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing.

A fresh and colorful dish of shredded white noodles forms the base layer in a white bowl, mixed with thin strips of bright orange carrots and green beans adding a crunchy texture. Scattered pieces of halved red cherry tomatoes and green leaves peek through the noodles, while a few light brown peanuts and a crumbly tan topping sit on top, giving an extra texture contrast. The dish is surrounded by a light brown sauce that pools gently at the bottom, enhancing the colors and layers. The bowl is placed on a wooden board over a white marbled surface with green chili peppers blurred in the background, giving a fresh and natural feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups shredded green papaya (unripe papaya)
½ cup shredded carrot (optional, for color and sweetness)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
¼ cup Thai basil or mint, chopped
2 scallions, sliced
2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped
1 small red chili, thinly sliced (or to taste)
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan version)
1 tsp maple syrup or palm sugar
1 garlic clove, finely minced
½ tsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
Optional: 1 tsp grated ginger for warmth

Instructions

Step 1: Peel the green papaya and remove the seeds. Shred it into thin strips using a julienne peeler, mandoline, or grater. Place the shredded papaya in a bowl of cold water to keep it extra crisp while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and rice vinegar (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more lime for tang, more sweetener if desired, or more chili for heat.
Step 3: Drain and pat dry the shredded papaya. In a large bowl, combine the papaya, shredded carrots, chopped herbs, sliced scallions, and chili. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to evenly coat all ingredients.
Step 4: Transfer the salad to a serving plate and sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or let it chill for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
Add grated ginger to the dressing for a warm, spicy note.
If you can’t find green papaya, you can use unripe mango as an alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Adjust the chili amount according to your preferred spice level to keep the salad balanced and enjoyable.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. For best texture, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving. Leftovers may lose some crispness and are best enjoyed chilled. Reheating is not recommended.

How to Serve

A light green bowl holds a colorful Thai papaya salad arranged in layers, starting with thin, pale green and white shredded papaya strands forming the base. On top, there are bright orange carrot sticks and thin green strips of vegetables adding texture. Cherry tomato halves in a rich red color sit around the edges. Scattered peanuts and crushed peanuts add a crunchy light brown layer on top, along with a few green leaves for contrast. The bowl is placed on a wooden round tray set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare green papaya salad in advance?

It’s best to prepare and serve this salad fresh to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant flavors. If needed, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving.

What can I substitute if I can’t find green papaya?

Unripe mango is a good alternative, offering a similar tartness and crunch. You can also try shredded cucumber, though it will be less firm.