Papaya Salad with Papaya Seed Dressing
8 Servings
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minute
Tips & Description
Bright, refreshing, and delicately layered, papaya salad offers subtle sweetness with a gentle peppery kick from freshly ground papaya seeds. Creamy avocado, tender butter lettuce, and thin slices of ripe papaya are lightly dressed in a silky rice vinegar vinaigrette that feels both tropical and refined. The result is simple, elegant, and beautifully balanced.
For the best flavor, choose fully ripe papaya so its natural sweetness contrasts with the tangy dressing. Pulse the papaya seeds just until coarsely ground — they should resemble cracked pepper rather than a paste. Dress the salad lightly and toss gently to protect the delicate texture of the avocado and greens. Serve immediately for the freshest presentation.
Ingredients
1. For the Papaya Seed Dressing
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup canola oil
- 1/2 small sweet onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh papaya seeds
2. For the Salad
- Mixed greens or washed and torn butter lettuce
- Sliced ripe papaya
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Sliced avocado
Steps to Cook
1. In a blender, combine rice vinegar, canola oil, chopped onion, honey, salt, and dry mustard. Blend until smooth. Add the fresh papaya seeds and pulse briefly until they resemble coarsely cracked pepper.
2. In a large bowl or on individual plates, arrange the mixed greens or butter lettuce. Top with sliced papaya, red onion, and avocado.
3. Drizzle with the papaya seed dressing and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.