Experience a delightful fusion of tropical zest and Mediterranean charm with this **Mediterranean Diet Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)**. A vibrant twist on the classic Thai dish, this refreshing salad combines the crispness of shredded green papaya with Mediterranean staples like briny kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese. Fresh cherry tomatoes, crunchy green beans, and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts lend layers of texture, while a tangy lime-garlic dressing ties it all together. Perfectly balanced with optional red chili for heat and a hint of savory fish or soy sauce, this quick and nutritious dish is ideal as a light lunch or a colorful side. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a healthy, gluten-free recipe that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients in every bite.
Begin by peeling the green papaya. Using a julienne peeler or a sharp knife, finely shred the papaya into thin strips. Place the shredded papaya in a large mixing bowl.
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl with the papaya.
Slice the kalamata olives into halves and add them to the mixing bowl.
Blanch the green beans by boiling them in salted water for about 3 minutes or until just tender. Drain and immerse in ice water to cool. Cut into 1-inch pieces and add to the salad bowl.
Crumble the feta cheese and set it aside to be added last to avoid breaking it apart too much during mixing.
In a mortar and pestle, gently crush the garlic cloves into a paste. If you prefer spice, add the chopped red chili and pound together.
Mix the garlic paste, fresh lime juice, olive oil, and fish sauce or soy sauce in a small bowl to create the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl.
Toss the salad gently, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
Add crumbled feta cheese and toss lightly.
Sprinkle the roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves over the top just before serving for added texture and flavor.
Calories |
922 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.7 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.0 g | 70% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 2748 mg | 119% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 84.1 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.9 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.1 g | ||
| Protein | 22.0 g | 44% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 537 mg | 41% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 2066 mg | 44% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.