Papaya and Spinach Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-01 · Updated 2026-08-01

Bright tropical papaya and fresh spinach tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a crisp and healthy salad bursting with sunshine flavors. This salad recipe, ready in about 10 minutes, pairs fresh papaya, baby spinach leaves, red onion into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. 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.

Ingredients

• 1 cup, peeled and cubed fresh papaya
• 3 cups, washed baby spinach leaves
• 2 tbsp, thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds
• 3 tbsp, freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tbsp, freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine 3 cups washed baby spinach leaves, 1 cup peeled and cubed fresh papaya, 2 tbsp thinly sliced red onion, and 2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 tsp honey, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until emulsified and bright.
3. Step 3: Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and vibrant colors.