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.