Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing Thai salad combining crisp green papaya and ripe mango tossed in a zesty lime and chili dressing with fresh herbs. This thai-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 20 minutes blends green papaya, peeled and julienned, ripe mango, peeled and julienned, carrot, julienned into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 180 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Serves 4 Thai cuisine 180 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups julienned green papaya, 1 cup julienned ripe mango, 1/2 cup julienned carrot, 1/2 cup blanched chopped green beans, and 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp palm sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 finely chopped bird's eye chili until sugar dissolves and dressing is balanced between sour, salty, and spicy.
  3. Step 3: Pour dressing over the papaya mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  4. Step 4: Add 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts on top, tossing once more lightly just before serving for a fresh, crunchy texture.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (20 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Green Papaya and Mango Salad with Spicy Lime Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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