Papaya Parsley Salad with Cheese Recipe
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: European
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
The Papaya Parsley Salad with Cheese is a vibrant and refreshing dish that is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a healthy, yet light and satisfying meal. Combining the natural sweetness of ripe papaya with the tangy freshness of lemon, this salad is complemented by the creamy saltiness of feta cheese and the crunch of roasted peanuts. Packed with vibrant colors and flavors, itβs an ideal appetizer or side dish that can also double as a light dinner when paired with a comforting soup. The best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Papaya (peeled, deseeded, diced) | 1 medium papaya (about 3 cups) |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 small onion |
| Parsley (or mint leaves) | Small bunch, finely chopped |
| Lemon (juiced) | 1 medium lemon |
| Feta Cheese | 1/4 cup, crumbled |
| Roasted Peanuts (Moongphali) | 2 tablespoons, crushed |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Vitamin C | 45% of RDI |
| Calcium | 8% of RDI |
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all the ingredients. Peel and deseed the papaya, then dice it into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the onion and parsley (or mint if you prefer), and juice the lemon.
-
Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced papaya, chopped onion, chopped parsley (or mint), and roasted peanuts. Crumble the feta cheese into the mix.
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Season and Toss: Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss everything together gently. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
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Serve Immediately: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor. If you prefer a chilled salad, consider refrigerating the papaya before cutting it into cubes. This will keep the salad cooler and more refreshing.
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Pairing Suggestion: For a light and satisfying dinner, pair this Papaya Parsley Salad with Cheese with a Cream of Mushroom & Spring Onion Soup, perfect for balancing the fresh flavors of the salad with a warm, comforting dish.
Tips:
- Papaya Choice: Choose a ripe papaya for the best flavor. It should have a sweet aroma and give slightly when pressed. The flesh should be orange or pinkish in color.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or simply omit it for a lighter option.
- Additional Crunch: If you prefer more crunch, add a handful of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds alongside the roasted peanuts.
This Papaya Parsley Salad with Cheese is the perfect way to enjoy a burst of freshness in every bite. Whether itβs served as a side, starter, or even a light meal, it brings together simple ingredients that create something truly delicious and nourishing.
