Healthy Thai Green Papaya Salad

• 1 large green papaya, shredded
• 1 carrot, shredded
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons of palm sugar or brown sugar
• 1-2 red or green chilies, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons of roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh mint, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced

1. Peel the green papaya and carrot, then shred them into thin strips using a julienne peeler or a mandoline.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded papaya and carrot with the cherry tomatoes and sliced green onions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar or brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add the minced garlic and finely sliced chilies to the dressing, adjusting the amount of chili according to your heat preference.
5. Pour the dressing over the shredded papaya mixture and toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Right before serving, sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the salad.
8. Garnish with the chopped cilantro and mint.
9. Give the salad a final toss and serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or as part of a larger Thai-inspired meal.