Introduction

This Thai salad with vermicelli and shrimp is a refreshing dish that balances vibrant flavors and textures. Packed with fresh herbs and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect as a light meal or an appetizer. This recipe highlights the harmonious combination of shrimp, rice vermicelli, and aromatic herbs like mint and coriander, delivering an authentic taste of Thailand.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Shrimp – 200 grams
Rice vermicelli – 100 grams
Fresh mint – a handful
Coriander – a handful
Carrot – 1 medium, julienned
Cucumber – 1 small, thinly sliced
Red bell pepper – 1, thinly sliced
Spring onions – 2, chopped
Fish sauce – 2 tablespoons
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
Chili flakes – to taste

Prep Time

The preparation time for this salad is approximately 20 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is minimal, at around 5 minutes for cooking the noodles and shrimp. The total time to prepare the salad comes to about 25 minutes. This recipe yields 2 to 4 servings, depending on portion size.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles

Cook the vermicelli noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Scampi

If using raw scampi, peel and devein them. In a pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and cook the scampi until they turn pink and are cooked through. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once done, set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the scampi are cooking, thinly slice the cucumber, bell pepper, and scallions. Chop the mint and coriander leaves finely.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled vermicelli noodles, cooked scampi, sliced vegetables, mint, and coriander.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the noodle and scampi mixture. Gently toss everything together to combine evenly.

Step 7: Serve the Salad

Place the salad in serving bowls or plates. Garnish with additional coriander and mint leaves if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Adjusting Spice Levels

You can control the spiciness of the salad by adjusting the amount of chili flakes used in the dressing.

Note 2: Substituting Ingredients

Feel free to substitute shrimp or cooked chicken for the scampi if desired.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light meal or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.

Note 4: Freshness

For the best flavor, consume the salad immediately after preparation. If necessary, the dish can be kept in the refrigerator for a few hours but may lose some texture.

Cook techniques

Boiling Vermicelli Noodles

To achieve the perfect texture, boil the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Ensure they are al dente for the best bite.

Preparing Shrimp

Clean and devein the shrimp before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also improves the presentation of the dish.

Chopping Herbs

Use a sharp knife to finely chop fresh mint and coriander. Chopping herbs increases their flavor and aroma, making your salad more vibrant.

Combining Ingredients

Gently toss all ingredients together in a large bowl to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed without breaking the noodles or shrimp.

Making the Dressing

Whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, and a sweetener until well combined. This dressing adds a balanced zing and richness to the salad.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or other seafood based on your preference.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

To make the salad vegetarian, replace the shrimp with tofu and ensure that the dressing does not contain fish sauce.

What can I serve with Thai salad?

The Thai salad can be served as a light meal or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or rice dishes.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, fresh herbs are best added just before serving.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs provide a much better flavor and texture, enhancing the overall dish.

Conclusion

This Thai salad with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, mint, and cilantro offers a refreshing combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for a light meal or as a side dish. The vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing make it an appealing option for those looking to enjoy a taste of Thai cuisine at home.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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