Introduction

Vietnamese shrimp or prawn noodle salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. Loaded with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and the deliciousness of tender shrimp, this salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for a gathering, it’s a simple yet impressive dish that anyone can make at home.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Shrimp: 500 grams, cleaned and deveined
Rice noodles: 200 grams
Carrot: 1 medium, julienned
Cucumber: 1 medium, julienned
Red bell pepper: 1 medium, sliced
Fresh coriander: a small bunch, chopped
Fresh mint: a small bunch, chopped
Lettuce: 2 cups, shredded
Peanuts: 1/2 cup, chopped

Dressing ingredients:
Fish sauce: 3 tablespoons
Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
Sugar: 1 tablespoon
Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Chili: 1, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Soak the rice vermicelli noodles in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until softened. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

In a pan, bring water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Drain and let cool. Peel and devein the shrimp.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

Thinly slice the cucumber, julienne the carrots, and chop the coriander and mint leaves. Place all chopped ingredients in a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, mix together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved and the dressing is well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In the bowl with vegetables, add the soaked noodles and cooked shrimp. Drizzle with the dressing and toss everything gently until well mixed.

Step 6: Serve

Divide the salad onto plates or bowls. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, or lime wedges, if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Noodle Texture

Ensure the rice noodles are fully soaked but not overcooked to maintain the right texture in the salad.

Note 2: Shrimp Freshness

Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best flavor and texture in the dish.

Note 3: Customization

Feel free to customize the salad with additional vegetables such as bell peppers or bean sprouts for extra crunch.

Note 4: Spicing it Up

Adjust the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chili slices if you prefer a spicier salad.

Note 5: Dressing Storage

Leftover dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days; just give it a good shake before using.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Noodles

You will start by boiling the rice noodles until they are soft and then rinsing them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures that they remain chewy and don’t clump together.

Cooking the Shrimp

The shrimp should be quickly cooked in a hot pan with a touch of oil until they turn pink and opaque. This preserves their juiciness and prevents overcooking.

Making the Dressing

Combine ingredients such as fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili to create a fragrant dressing that enhances the flavors of the salad while balancing sweetness and saltiness.

Assembling the Salad

Layer the cooled noodles, cooked shrimp, fresh herbs, and vegetables in a bowl. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Garnishing

Top the salad with toasted peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor, elevating the overall taste of the dish.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

What type of noodles are best for this salad?

Rice vermicelli noodles are ideal for this Vietnamese noodle salad, as they are light and absorb the dressing well.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

You can substitute the shrimp with tofu or omit the protein altogether and increase the quantity of vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

While the components can be prepared ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to keep the noodles and vegetables fresh.

What can I use instead of fish sauce?

For a vegetarian alternative, consider using soy sauce or a plant-based fish sauce option to achieve a similar umami flavor.

Conclusion

The Vietnamese shrimp noodle salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. It’s a delightful meal that can be enjoyed during warm days or as a light option any time of the year. The combination of tender shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fragrant herbs creates a satisfying experience, while the tangy dressing brings it all together.

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