Thai Green Papaya Summer Salad

Looking for a refreshing and healthy dish to enjoy during the warmer months? This Thai Green Papaya Summer Salad is one of our absolute favorites! It’s light, vibrant, and packed with fresh flavors that are perfect for sunny days. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make—ready in just 25 minutes with no cooking required. Let’s dive in!

Photo by Brad Arnold (Illuminate Photo Design), taken at Bread and Flours.

For the Dressing:

• 5 cloves of garlic

• 1 fresh red chili (or 2 tablespoons of sriracha for a milder kick)

• Pinch of salt (adjust to taste)

• Juice of 2 limes

• ¼ cup vegetarian fish sauce

• ¼ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed

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For the Salad:

• 1 cup green beans, cut into 2cm pieces

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 ¾ cups green papaya, peeled and julienned

• 20 leaves of Thai basil, roughly chopped

• ⅓ cup roasted and salted peanuts, chopped

• 1 cup fresh bean sprouts

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Optional Garnish:

• Fresh red chili slices or extra peanuts for added crunch

Directions

1. Make the Dressing: In a mortar, crush the garlic, chili, and salt into a paste. Add the lime juice, vegetarian fish sauce, and brown sugar, then stir until well combined. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Salad:

   • Lightly bruise the green beans in the mortar until they’re slightly cracked, then transfer them to a large bowl.

   • Gently crush the cherry tomatoes in the mortar and add them to the bowl.

   • Add the green papaya, Thai basil, and peanuts to the bowl. Toss everything together to coat with the dressing.

3. Finish and Serve:

   • Top the salad with fresh bean sprouts and garnish with extra chili or peanuts if desired.

   • Want more spice? Feel free to add an extra dash of sriracha or chili!

This salad is a celebration of fresh, bold flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a healthy snack. Enjoy every crunchy, zesty bite!