Mediterranean Diet Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

Discover a vibrant fusion of Thai and Mediterranean flavors with this refreshing Mediterranean Diet Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum). This healthier twist on the classic Thai favorite swaps in Mediterranean staples like kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese, adding a bold and savory depth. Crisp green papaya, juicy cherry tomatoes, blanched green beans, and roasted peanuts come together for a refreshing crunch, while a zesty lime and olive oil dressing ties it all together. Perfect as a light main dish or zesty side, this salad is rich in nutrients and celebrates the best of two beloved cuisines. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or summer gatherings.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized green papaya
• 10 pieces cherry tomatoes
• 10 pieces kalamata olives
• 50 grams feta cheese
• 100 grams green beans
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts
• 0.5 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 pieces garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 piece red chili (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl with the papaya.

Step 3

Slice the kalamata olives into halves and add them to the mixing bowl.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

Crumble the feta cheese and set it aside to be added last to avoid breaking it apart too much during mixing.

Step 6

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.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the bowl.

Step 9

Toss the salad gently, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.

Step 10

Add crumbled feta cheese and toss lightly.

Step 11

Sprinkle the roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves over the top just before serving for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1101g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	921.7

Total Fat 62.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.2g
Cholesterol 44.5mg	0%
Sodium 2748.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.9g	0%
Total Sugars 39.1g
Protein 22.0g	0%

Vitamin D 8IU	0%
Calcium 536.8mg	0%
Iron 6.9mg	0%
Potassium 2065.8mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.1%

Protein: 8.9%

Carbs: 34.0%