Thai-style Papaya Salad with Grilled Shrimp
Thai-style Papaya Salad, known as Som Tum, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly blends the tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors characteristic of Thai cuisine. When paired with succulent grilled shrimp, it creates a delightful meal that is both nutritious and bursting with flavor. This article explores the ingredients, preparation, and benefits of enjoying this delicious dish.
Ingredients
To prepare Thai-style Papaya Salad with Grilled Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups green papaya, shredded
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2-3 Thai bird's eye chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 8-10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for grilling
Preparation Steps
Make the Papaya Salad
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green papaya, diced tomatoes, and green beans.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and minced garlic until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture. Add the smashed chilies for the desired spice level.
4. Using a pestle or the back of a spoon, gently pound the mixture to combine the flavors without over-mashing the papaya.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more lime juice or sugar as needed.
Grill the Shrimp
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Toss the shrimp with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easy grilling.
4. Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, place a generous portion of the papaya salad on a plate and top it with grilled shrimp. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Health Benefits
This Thai-style Papaya Salad is not just delicious but also incredibly healthy. Green papaya is low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K. The addition of shrimp provides a good source of protein while being low in fat, making it an excellent choice for a light meal. Moreover, the fresh vegetables and herbs contribute dietary fiber, essential for digestive health.
Conclusion
Thai-style Papaya Salad with Grilled Shrimp is a fantastic dish that combines the best of Thai flavors, offering a refreshing and satisfying option for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!