Papaya salad with shrimp for 2 people

Papaya Salad with Shrimp – A Rainbow of Flavors

If you are looking for a refreshing salad, full of colors and flavors, look no further! This papaya salad with shrimp is a unique combination of tropical fruits and seafood, sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of summer to any day. It is a perfect dish for a light lunch or a special dinner, which can also be served on festive occasions.

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 1 large papaya
- 12 shrimp (peeled)
- 1 medium avocado
- 1 granadilla (or another tropical fruit, such as carambola)
- 2 passion fruits
- 1-2 strawberries (optional, for a splash of color)
- 2 teaspoons of honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime (juice)
- 50 ml white wine (optional, for extra flavor)
- Garnish: a bamboo leaf, chili threads, and American parsley (or classic parsley)

A Bit of History:
Fruit salads have been appreciated throughout history, often associated with joy and festivity. Combining fruits with proteins, such as shrimp, is not just a modern innovation, but also an excellent way to add freshness and flavor to dishes. This salad is not only a visual feast, but also a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Step by Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the papaya:
Start by peeling the papaya. Cut the fruit in half and carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds. Discard the seeds and cut the pulp into small cubes. Reserve the hollow papaya halves, as you will use these natural "bowls" for serving.

2. Preparing the avocado:
Peel the avocado and immediately drizzle it with lime juice to prevent oxidation. Cut it into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. This will add a creamy texture to the salad.

3. Cutting the other fruits:
Cut the granadilla and passion fruits to add to the salad. If using strawberries, slice them thinly. These fruits will bring a sweet-tart taste and an exotic aroma.

4. Preparing the shrimp:
In a non-stick pan, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the peeled shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Finally, add a splash of white wine, let it simmer for a few seconds, then remove the shrimp from the pan.

5. Preparing the dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the juice from the two passion fruits, honey, cumin, oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to obtain a smooth emulsion.

6. Assembling the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the papaya cubes, avocado slices, the other cut fruits, and the sautéed shrimp. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss, being careful not to crush the fruits.

7. Serving:
Fill the hollow papaya halves with the prepared salad. Garnish with a bamboo leaf, a few chili threads for a touch of spice, and American parsley for a fresh look.

Practical Tips:
- Choose a ripe papaya; it should have a yellow-orange color and be slightly soft to the touch.
- Shrimp can be replaced with other types of seafood, such as squid or white fish, to vary the recipe.
- If you prefer a vegan salad, you can omit the shrimp and add tofu or roasted chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

Nutritional Information:
This salad is not only delicious but also healthy! Papaya is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, while avocado contains healthy fats and fiber. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and micronutrients. This salad is perfect for those who want to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other fruits for the salad?
Yes, you can experiment with other tropical fruits, such as mango or pineapple, to add different flavors.

2. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
If you exclude the shrimp and use a dressing based on olive oil and lemon, the salad becomes completely vegan.

3. How can I store the salad for the next day?
It is recommended to keep the ingredients separate and assemble them before serving to avoid the fruits becoming mushy.

This papaya salad with shrimp is an excellent choice for those looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a healthy and tasty meal. Enjoy every bite and savor the tropical colors and flavors! Bon appétit!