Description
This Spicy Thai Shrimp Salad combines succulent sautéed shrimp with fresh, crunchy vegetables and a tangy, spicy dressing inspired by traditional Thai flavors. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this salad balances heat, sweetness, and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Salad
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, julienned
- 1/2 cup carrot, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili paste, minced garlic, and sesame oil until smooth and well combined.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, julienned red bell pepper, grated carrot, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Toss together gently.
- Add cooked shrimp: Once the shrimp are slightly cooled, add them to the salad bowl with the vegetables.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients with the flavorful dressing.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle the roughly chopped peanuts on top of the salad for added texture and crunch.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the salad and adjust seasonings if desired by adding more lime juice or chili paste to brighten or add more heat.
- Serve: Serve the spicy Thai shrimp salad immediately in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy fresh!
Notes
- Peanuts add a crunchy texture but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- For a milder heat, reduce the chili paste amount or use a milder chili sauce.
- To save time, shrimp can be cooked ahead and chilled before assembling.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the dressing.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain crispness of greens and vegetables.
