Description
A vibrant and refreshing Spicy Thai Shrimp Salad combining crisp vegetables with a zesty homemade Thai dressing. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavors of lime, ginger, and Sriracha, this salad makes a perfect light meal or appetizer with a delightful mix of textures and a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage or romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cucumber (sliced into thin half-moons)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Spicy Thai Dressing
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha or Thai chili sauce (adjust to spice level)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded Napa cabbage or romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced cucumber half-moons, chopped fresh cilantro, chopped fresh mint, sliced green onions, and the cooked shrimp. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce (or soy sauce if preferred), honey or brown sugar, sesame oil, Sriracha or Thai chili sauce, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared spicy Thai dressing over the salad bowl. Toss the salad gently but thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated evenly with the flavorful dressing.
- Add Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top of the salad if using. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill it in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
Notes
- For an extra layer of flavor, grill or sauté the shrimp with a sprinkle of salt and chili flakes prior to adding to the salad.
- This salad is delicious when served in lettuce cups for a fun presentation or over rice noodles to make it more substantial.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha or chili sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
