Samoan Salted Coconut Water (Vaisalo)

Vaisalo, or salted water, is the humble drink that Samoans reach for during and after a big meal. Fresh coconut water from a young nut is poured over ice and seasoned with a pinch of salt, sometimes with lime — a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, coconut-heavy dishes of the Samoan table. On hot days and at village feasts, it is the most thirst-quenching thing you can drink.

What makes it great: the salt does something magical to coconut water, intensifying its natural sweetness and making it taste cool and clean. Served icy cold with a squeeze of lime, it is the perfect palate cleanser alongside palusami, roast pork, and fried fish — light, refreshing, and wonderfully simple.

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