Chopped Thai Shrimp Salad is the perfect dish for anyone seeking a refreshing, vibrant meal packed with flavor. This delightful salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful presentation, but it also offers a variety of textures and zesty flavors that make it a standout on any table. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick recipe or a home cook wanting to impress your guests with an Asian-inspired dish, this salad is for you!
Trivia Question: What is the main ingredient in a traditional Thai shrimp salad?
Answer: The main ingredient in a traditional Thai shrimp salad is, of course, shrimp, often paired with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Servings | 15 minutes | 5 minutes | 20 minutes | 290 Calories |
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preparing the shrimp. In a medium-sized pot, bring water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook them for about 3-5 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and let them cool. Once cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: While the shrimp is cooling, prepare your fresh ingredients. Wash the mixed salad greens thoroughly and place them in a large bowl. Add the shredded carrots, bell pepper slices, cucumber, chopped cilantro, and green onions to the bowl.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and chili flakes. This will be your zesty garlic lime dressing. Adjust the sugar and chili flakes according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Once the shrimp has cooled and the fresh vegetables are prepared, add the chopped shrimp to the large bowl with the mixed greens. Pour the garlic lime dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine.
Step 5: For a crunchy finish, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top of the salad before serving. This will add a delightful texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations
This Chopped Thai Shrimp Salad is versatile and can be easily adapted to your preferences. Here are some tips to make it even better:
- Shortcuts: Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time. Just make sure they’re thawed and ready to eat.
- Recipe Swaps: Feel free to customize the ingredients! You can add avocado for creaminess or swap out the shrimp for grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Flavor Boost: Add a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer more heat, incorporate fresh sliced chili peppers or a dash of sriracha into the dressing.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium-sized pot
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for mixing
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting.
Food and Drink Pairings
This refreshing salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
- Grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal
- Steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavors
- A light white wine or a chilled Thai beer, such as Singha, to complement the zesty flavors
With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, this Chopped Thai Shrimp Salad is perfect for a healthy meal any time of the year. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. The crunchy vegetables and spicy chili will surely become a favorite!
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FAQs
Q: What is Thai salad dressing made of?
A: Thai salad dressing typically includes ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili flakes, creating a balance of salty, sweet, and sour flavors.
Q: What are the 4 types of Thai salads?
A: The four main types of Thai salads include Som Tum (green papaya salad), Larb (spicy meat salad), Yam Woon Sen (glass noodle salad), and the seafood salad, which often features shrimp or crab.
Q: How many calories are in a Thai shrimp salad?
A: A typical serving of Thai shrimp salad contains around 290 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Q: Does Thai food use shrimp paste?
A: Yes, shrimp paste is a common ingredient in many Thai dishes, used to add depth and umami flavor. However, it’s not always included in salads, as fresh ingredients are often preferred.
