How to Make a Thai-style Shrimp and Lime Salad
If you crave a refreshing and zesty dish, look no further than a Thai-style shrimp and lime salad. This delightful recipe combines succulent shrimp with vibrant herbs and zesty lime juice, creating a dish bursting with flavor. Whether served as a starter or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
To prepare this delicious Thai-style shrimp and lime salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (or honey)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, drain the shrimp and set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved. This dressing is vital for giving the salad its signature flavor, so adjust the sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, mint leaves, and sliced chilies. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is well-coated.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is mixed, your Thai-style shrimp and lime salad is ready to serve! You can serve it immediately for the freshest taste or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Perfect Salad
- For added crunch, consider adding crushed peanuts or cashews before serving.
- If you love spicy dishes, feel free to add more chilies or even a splash of sriracha.
- For a twist, substitute shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
This Thai-style shrimp and lime salad is not only easy to make but also loaded with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. Enjoy this light and refreshing dish at your next gathering or as a quick weeknight meal!