| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 19g | 5g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 7g | 3g | 0.31g |
As soon as the word “Pawpaw Salad” slips off my tongue, I am transported straight into a sun-dappled orchard, the trees loaded with ripe, juicy pawpaws. Much like the vibrant, energetic blend of cultures in NYC, this salad offers a compelling medley of colors, flavors, and textures. It marries the tropical allure of ripe, buttery pawpaws, the sharp, sassy bite of red onions, the creamy richness of avocados, the zesty splash of lime, and the fresh, invigorating undertones of cilantro. In essence, Pawpaw Salad encapsulates what I cherish most about cooking–the coming together of diverse elements to create a unified, compelling whole.
A Symphony of Health Benefits
But this salad doesn’t just dazzle the senses; it also showers your body with a wealth of health benefits. Pawpaws, the stars of the show, pack a punch both in flavor and nutrition. They’re a solid source of antioxidant-rich vitamin C which helps support a robust immune system. The red onions, meanwhile, are brimming with quercetin, a potent antioxidant that may contribute to heart health. Avocado contributes a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats that maintain youthful skin and support heart health. Cilantro offers a fresh burst of flavor, along with a smorgasbord of vitamins and minerals. Topped with heart-healthy olive oil and immune-boosting lime juice, this salad is the perfect blend of taste and nutrition.
The Art of Pairing
What I love about this Pawpaw Salad is its versatility. This fruit-forward dish can connect with quite a few culinary partners. It would be delightful next to some grilled chicken breast or a tilapia taco. It’s like an orchestra that knows how to play with different bands but never loses its own unique rhythm. A little cheese and jalapeno pepper can add another dimension to the salad, much like how an unexpected twist can add a layer of depth to my stage performances.
Inspired by my city, where the familiar can invigorate the new, this Pawpaw Salad might appear to be a simple, rustic dish at the surface. However, one bite and you’ll realize it’s a harmonious blend of diverse flavors like the cosmopolitan yet homely vibe that characterizes NYC. It’s a delicious adventure waiting to unfold on your taste buds, a crunchy, creamy, citrusy explosion of health and flavor–truly a salad that captures the spirit of my kitchen, my table, and my city.
What You’ll Need
- 3 Large Pawpaws (fully ripe)
- 1 Medium Red Onion
- 1 Cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves
- 2 Large Avocados
- 1 Large Lime (Juiced)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 Jalapeno Pepper (optional)
- 1/2 Cup Crumbled Feta Cheese (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by peeling the 3 large fully ripe pawpaws. Cut them in half and remove the seeds. After that, slice the pawpaws into bite-sized chunks.
Step Two
Peel the medium red onion and cut it into thin slices. If you’re using a jalapeno pepper for some heat, slice it thinly too. Remember to remove the seeds.
Step Three
Take the 2 large avocados, slice them in half and remove the pit. Then slice them into bite-sized pieces. Be careful to keep the pieces as uniform as possible.
Step Four
Place the pawpaw, avocado, and red onion slices in a large bowl. If using, add the sliced jalapeno as well.
Step Five
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the juice of one large lime and a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to your preference.
Step Six
Pour the dressing over your salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until it’s well coated.
Step Seven
Chop the fresh cilantro leaves and sprinkle them over the salad. If you’re using it, crumble half a cup of feta cheese over the top as well.
Step Eight
Give the salad one final gentle toss to distribute the cilantro and cheese, then serve. Enjoy your delicious pawpaw salad!
