Thai Spicy Salad with Seafood and Herbs

When it comes to Thai cuisine, one dish that stands out for its vibrant flavors and refreshing ingredients is the Thai Spicy Salad with Seafood and Herbs. This delightful salad, also known as 'Yam Talay', combines the freshness of seafood with zesty herbs and a spicy dressing, making it a perfect dish for hot days or a light meal.

To create this tantalizing salad, you need a mix of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and fish, which are all popular choices in Thai cooking. The seafood is cooked quickly, ensuring it retains its tender texture and natural sweetness. Once cooked, it’s combined with a variety of crisp vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and tomatoes, resulting in a colorful medley.

The key to the authentic flavor of this dish lies in its dressing. A combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and chili creates a spicy and tangy dressing that elevates the entire salad. Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil add aromatic notes, enhancing the overall taste experience. This perfect combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors is what makes the Thai Spicy Salad with Seafood and Herbs a true culinary gem.

Ingredients for Thai Spicy Salad with Seafood and Herbs

  • 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 200g squid, cleaned and sliced
  • 200g white fish fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1-2 fresh red chili, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Preparation Steps

  1. Begin by preparing the seafood. In a pot of boiling water, cook the shrimp and squid for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn opaque. Remove them from the pot and set aside to cool.
  2. In the same pot, add the fish fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked. Drain and let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cooled seafood.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and fresh chili until well combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
  6. Finally, add the fresh herbs – cilantro, mint, and Thai basil – and give the salad one last toss before serving.

This Thai Spicy Salad with Seafood and Herbs serves as an excellent appetizer or light main course. Not only is it bursting with flavors, but it also packs a nutritious punch, filled with proteins and vitamins. The freshness of the herbs, combined with the seafood’s delicate taste and the spicy lime dressing, guarantees a delightful experience with every bite.

For an added twist, consider serving this salad with a side of crispy fried wontons or steamed jasmine rice. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal choice for gatherings and special occasions. Enjoy the flavors of Thailand right at home!