Are you looking for a dish that’s both refreshing and invigorating? Look no further than our spicy papaya salad recipe! This dish is packed with vibrant colours and flavours, thanks to the unique combination of ripe papaya and spicy chilli peppers. Picture the natural sweetness of papaya paired with the crisp texture of fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts, all tied together with a tangy lime dressing. It’s the kind of salad that excites your taste buds and keeps you wanting more.
Perfect for any occasion, this spicy papaya salad is not only a treat for the eyes but also a healthy choice loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this salad is sure to be a hit. Additionally, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring very little preparation.
The ingredients are straightforward and fresh, making it a wholesome option that’s ideal for anyone aiming to include more vegetables in their diet. Papaya, renowned for its high vitamin C content, pairs wonderfully with the beta-carotene found in carrots and the fibre provided by bean sprouts. The inclusion of coriander and chilli peppers not only adds a flavourful kick but also brings an extra nutritional benefit.
So, why wait? Get ready to enjoy the bold and delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy tastes with our spicy papaya salad recipe. Whether you’re confident in the kitchen or just starting out, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring something exciting to your table.
To craft this delightful spicy papaya salad, here is the step by step:
Papaya Salad with Coriander and Chilli Pepper
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized green papaya, peeled, deseeded, and julienned
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 150 fresh bean sprouts, rinsed and drained
- 1 red chilli pepper, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
- small bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, roughly crushed (optional)
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 red chilli pepper, finely chopped (or less, to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables
- Using a sharp knife or a julienne peeler, slice the green papaya and carrots into thin strips. Place them into a large mixing bowl.
- Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, bean sprouts, and half of the chopped coriander to the bowl.
Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and finely chopped chilli pepper. Mix thoroughly until the sugar has dissolved.
Assemble the salad
- Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Garnish and serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with the remaining coriander, sliced chilli pepper, and roasted peanuts, if using.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
Serving your spicy papaya salad with style can make all the difference. Begin by arranging the salad on a large, colourful platter to showcase its striking colours. The vibrant orange of the papaya and carrots, the red of the bell pepper, and the fresh green of the coriander create a visual treat that’s hard to resist.
To make your meal more special, think about serving the salad alongside grilled chicken or prawns. The smoky flavours from the grill work wonderfully with the tangy, spicy taste of the salad. If you prefer a vegetarian option, slices of tofu or tempeh are excellent protein-packed additions. These not only make the dish more nourishing but also more satisfying.
For an elegant touch, decorate the salad with extra coriander leaves and a handful of roasted peanuts. This simple addition improves both the taste and the presentation, making it ideal for hosting guests. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving adds a refreshing sharpness that ties the flavours together perfectly.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a meal with your family, these serving ideas will help you present a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Savour every bite of this delightful salad!
Nutritional Benefits
This spicy papaya salad isn’t just tasty; it’s full of nutrients that can enhance your health. The key ingredient, papaya, is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help to strengthen your immune system and combat free radicals. Carrots bring in plenty of beta-carotene, supporting healthy vision and skin. At the same time, the fresh bean sprouts provide fibre and protein, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling satisfied. Coriander, often an underappreciated herb, delivers anti-inflammatory properties and is packed with essential vitamins like A and K.
Adding red chilli peppers to the mix not only gives the salad its spicy flavour but also introduces capsaicin, a compound known to support metabolism and heart health. The lime juice in the dressing is a great source of vitamin C, while fish sauce supplies vital amino acids and minerals. Don’t overlook the roasted peanuts, which add a delightful crunch along with healthy fats and protein.
By preparing this salad with fresh ingredients, you’re choosing a meal that supports overall well-being. Each bite brings together flavours that are not only enjoyable but also beneficial to your body. So, dig into this colourful, nourishing dish and savour the advantages it offers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this spicy papaya salad ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the individual ingredients beforehand. However, for the best texture and flavour, it’s advisable to mix them together and add the dressing just before serving. This helps the salad stay fresh and crisp.
What can I use as a substitute if I can’t find green papaya?
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. Although it will remain good for up to two days, this salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its vibrant flavours and crispness.
My salad turned out too spicy. How can I fix it?
If your salad is too spicy, you can reduce the heat by adding extra lime juice or a little sugar. This will help balance the flavours and make it less spicy.