Kris Yenbamroong

If Thai food were laid out as one of those nutritional pyramids they showed you in health class, green papaya salad would be at the bottom, right above rice. In other words: It is fundamental.

This low-effort, high-flavor tomato demonstrates how the Thai concept of balancing flavors can be achieved in different combinations.

Add these seasoned peanuts to your som tum.

A palate cleanser packed with sweet, sour, and salty flavors; taste and tweak the seasonings as you go.

The tangy dipping sauce is great with pretty much any grilled meat. Keep it on heavy rotation this summer.

The little bits of fatback add an extra layer of deliciousness.

You'll find fresh rice noodles in well-stocked Asian markets (or search for them on amazon.com).