Green Papaya Salad

This Green Papaya Salad is one of those dishes that wakes up your whole palate — tangy, salty, sweet, and just the right amount of heat. With shredded green papaya, a punchy lime-fish sauce dressing, toasted peanuts, and plenty of fresh herbs, it’s crunchy, refreshing, and deeply satisfying.

This recipe keeps it approachable but authentic in flavor. The green papaya adds crisp texture while the dressing brings layers of brightness. Whether you serve it as a light appetizer, a side to grilled protein, or the star of a summery lunch — it’s a salad that never gets boring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

• Low-carb, low-calorie, and full of fiber

• Customizable heat level and protein add-ons

• Meal-prep friendly (stays crisp for hours!)

• Vibrant, bold, and ready in 20 minutes

Final Thoughts:

This Green Papaya Salad is the definition of light, bright, and bold. Whether you're looking to add more fresh vegetables into your meals or craving something tangy and spicy to wake up your palate, this salad delivers. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve at your next gathering.

Yield: 2-3 servings

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Green Papaya Salad

This Green Papaya Saladis one of those dishes that wakes up your whole palate — tangy, salty, sweet, and just the right amount of heat. Withshredded green papaya, a punchylime-fish sauce dressing,toasted peanuts, and plenty offresh herbs, it’s crunchy, refreshing, and deeply satisfying.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 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)

For the Dressing

• 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

1. Peel the green papaya and remove seeds. Shred using a julienne peeler, mandoline, or grater into thin strips. Place in a bowl of cold water while you prep the rest (this keeps it extra crisp).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and vinegar (if using). Adjust seasoning: more lime for tang, more sweet if needed, or more chili for heat.
3. Drain and pat dry the papaya. In a large bowl, combine papaya, carrots, herbs, scallions, and chili. Pour dressing over and toss well to combine.
4. Plate the salad and sprinkle with roasted peanuts. Serve immediately, or let it chill for 10 minutes to let flavors develop.

Notes

Add protein: Grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken go great on top

Make it vegan: Use soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of fish sauce

Make ahead: Store the shredded papaya and dressing separately for freshness

Use green mango or kohlrabi if you can’t find green papaya

Craving crunch? Add crispy shallots or fried garlic on top

Nutrition Facts

Calories

165

Sugar

17 g

Protein

5 g

Fat

6 g

Carbs

28 g

Sat. Fat

1 g

Cholesterol

0 mg

Fiber

5 g

Net carbs

23 g

Sodium

789 mg

Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.