How to Make Vietnamese Shrimp Salad with Herbs
Vietnamese shrimp salad, known as "Gỏi Tôm," is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines succulent shrimp with a variety of fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal. Below is a detailed recipe on how to make Vietnamese shrimp salad with herbs.
Ingredients
To prepare Vietnamese shrimp salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups mixed lettuce (such as Boston and Romaine)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Thai basil leaves
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, drain the shrimp and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
While the shrimp is cooling, wash and dry the mixed lettuce, mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the shredded carrots, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. This combination will add texture and flavor to your salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and sliced chili (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste, balancing the salty, sour, and sweet elements.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Once the shrimp has cooled, slice them in half lengthwise. In the bowl with the vegetables and herbs, add the shrimp and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the shrimp and dressing are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. For an added crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before serving. This dish can be served immediately for the freshest taste, but it can also be refrigerated for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Enjoy your homemade Vietnamese shrimp salad as a light appetizer or as a refreshing main dish! The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your family and friends.
Tips for Variation
Feel free to customize your Vietnamese shrimp salad. You can add other ingredients such as sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even avocado for a creamier texture. Additionally, substituting shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu can create a delicious variation of this dish.
This Vietnamese shrimp salad is not only simple to make but also a fantastic way to highlight the abundance of fresh herbs and vegetables available in Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy this healthy dish as part of a balanced diet!