Papaya Mango Sunset Salad
Bright, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavors, my Papaya Mango Sunset Salad combines mango, papaya, zesty lime, and a hint of spice.
Ryan Nordheimer•
October 27, 2025
Bright, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavors, this Papaya Mango Sunset Salad combines sweet mango, crisp papaya, zesty lime, and a hint of spice for the perfect summer dish.
A Tropical Twist on a Classic
Inspired by Thai green papaya salad, this version adds a Latin American and Caribbean twist with bold, tropical flavors. Sweet mango, crisp papaya, and a spicy citrus dressing create a vibrant, tangy balance—perfect as a side or light meal.
Perfect Balance of Sweet & Tangy
The Latin-Caribbean influence shines through. I used the classic fish sauce as well as a simple yet flavorful blend of lime juice and a touch of soy sauce, giving the dressing a delicious umami depth while keeping it accessible. Fresh jalapeños bring just the right amount of heat.
This easy and healthy tropical salad is perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light summer meal or a bold, flavor-packed side, my salad will transport you straight to the tropics with every bite!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This easy-to-make tropical fruit salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a refreshing appetizer, a vibrant side dish, or even as a light lunch. It’s the perfect dish to bring to a picnic or summer party, as it adds a bright, tropical element to any table. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a bold, unique dish or simply want to treat yourself to a refreshing, fruit-forward salad, this Papaya Mango Sunset Salad is a must-try.
For the best experience, serve it chilled and freshly dressed, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Every bite delivers a taste of the tropics, making this a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again!
Equipment
- Food Processor
Key Ingredients:
- Lime Juice: Adds a bright, tangy zest that enhances both sweet and savory dishes with a refreshing citrus kick.
- Soy Sauce: Brings a rich, umami depth to dishes, balancing saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that enhances both savory and spicy dishes with its bold, aromatic flavor.
Hey! My name is Ryan Nordheimer. Welcome to my cooking and baking site. I’m a 25-year old home cook living in the East Village in New York City. Hopefully you enjoy my food through my own, tried-and-true recipes.
Ingredients (12)
Ingredients (12)
Salad
Dressing
Instructions
Peel your papaya (1) with a vegetable peeler. Depending on how much energy you have, either julienne (most annoying), slice into moons (easier), or cube (easiest) your papaya. Add to a large bowl.
Peel your mangos (2). Julienne, slice, or cube the mangos. Add to a smaller, separate bowl.
Make the dressing by adding all the ingredients to a food processor and processing until finely chopped. Taste for seasoning. It should be punchy because it'll get diluted when mixed with the fruit.
At this point, you can cover and refrigerate everything for up to a day. When ready to serve, spoon some of the dressing onto the papaya, a little less onto the mango, and toss to combine. Taste to see if it needs more dressing or salt.
Pile the papaya on the base of a platter. Scatter chopped nuts (¾ cup) on top. Then the mango. Then more nuts. Then chopped cilantro. (½ cup)
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