Ai-Mei’s Burmese Melon Salad

 

Burmese Melon Salad with Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette*
Recipe created by Susan Feniger, featured in O Magazine

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 TBS unsweetened finely shredded coconut
  • 2 TBS white sesame seeds
  • 2 TBS finely chopped fresh ginger

  • 1/4 cup peanut or olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 1/2 TBS fish sauce
  • Kosher salt to taste

  • 3 cups melon (any combination of melons; we used watermelon), peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 1/3 cup chopped peanuts, toasted (optional)
  • 1/4 cup mixture of chopped basil, cilantro and mint (optional)

*Note: we made a few changes to this recipe. The original recipe can be found on the Oprah web site.

Heat large skillet over medium heat; add coconut and toast, stirring often, until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.

Heat the skillet over medium heat and add sesame seeds; toast, stirring constantly, until golden. Add to the coconut.

Add the ginger and a small amount of the oil to the pan; cook, stirring often until very fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Add to the toasted coconut and sesame seeds.

Prepare the dressing by whisking together the oil, lime juice, and fish sauce. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

To serve: Combine all of the ingredients, toss well, season to taste, and serve immediately.