How to Make a Vietnamese Seafood Salad
Vietnamese seafood salad, often known as "Gỏi Hải Sản," is a vibrant dish that marries fresh herbs, tender seafood, and a tangy dressing. This refreshing salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or an appetizer. Here’s how you can make your own Vietnamese seafood salad at home.
Ingredients
To create a delectable Vietnamese seafood salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200g squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1 cup crab meat (cooked and shredded)
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
- Optional: 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Seafood
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add the shrimp and squid; cook for about 3-5 minutes or until they turn opaque and tender. Once cooked, drain and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool, then drain again and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the seafood cools down, prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber, julienne the carrot, and slice the red bell pepper. In a large bowl, combine these vegetables.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. This dressing is what gives the salad its signature tangy flavor.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the bowl with the vegetables, add the cooked shrimp, squid, and crab meat. Pour the dressing over the top, and toss gently to combine, making sure every ingredient gets coated in the flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Add Herbs and Serve
Fold in the chopped mint and cilantro for that fresh kick. Once everything is well mixed, taste and adjust seasoning if needed—more lime juice or fish sauce can be added based on your preference.
For a final touch, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts on top right before serving. This will add a delightful crunch to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Spoon the salad onto a serving platter or individual bowls. It can be served alone or accompanied by rice paper for wrapping. Pair it with a cold beverage to enhance your dining experience.
Conclusion
Making a Vietnamese seafood salad is simple and rewarding. The combination of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs comes together to create a dish that's not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. Enjoy making this healthy Vietnamese classic at home, and savor the flavors of Vietnam with every bite!