Vietnamese Shrimp Salad (Goi Tom)
Try this Vietnamese Shrimp Salad (Goi Tom) recipe.
Try this Vietnamese Shrimp Salad (Goi Tom) recipe.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
- 1 piece of ginger (minced)
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or slaw mix with carrots then o
- 2 tablespoons minced mint
- 2 tablespoons minced thai basil
- 1 large shallot (thinly sliced)
- coconut oil (for frying shallots)
- 1/2 lb cooked and chilled shrimp (i buy steamed shrimp o
- 2 teaspoons organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 2 green onions (minced)
- Carbohydrate 7.05619312580981 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.201184375002961 g
- Fiber 1.89449997020603 g
- Protein 1.33418937593202 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0276781250006775 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (151g)
- Sodium 702.164751409926 mg
- Sugar 5.16169315560378 g
- Trans Fat 0.101369375000868 g
- Calories 27 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat about 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over high heat in a small skillet.
- Once hot, fry the sliced shallot for about 1 minute until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
- In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage, sprouts, carrots, mint, basil, cilantro, shrimp, and fried shallot.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss.
- Divide between 4 plates and serve.
My Vietnamese Shrimp Salad Adventure: A Simple Recipe for Busy Days
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant struggle. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending to-do list, the idea of spending hours in the kitchen often feels overwhelming. That's why I love recipes that are both flavorful and incredibly quick to prepare. This Vietnamese Shrimp Salad (Goi Tom) is one of those gems – a vibrant, refreshing dish that comes together in a flash, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
I first encountered Goi Tom during a trip to Vietnam. The vibrant colours, the fragrant herbs, the perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavors – it was a sensory explosion. I was immediately captivated. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to make at home, even for someone like me, who isn't a culinary expert. This recipe is my adaptation, tweaked slightly to fit my own preferences and pantry staples. I've found that the key to a truly great Goi Tom lies in the freshness of the ingredients. The crunch of the cabbage, the peppery bite of the mint and basil, the sweetness of the carrots – all of these elements contribute to a delightful symphony of textures and tastes.
The Magic of Fresh Ingredients
The beauty of this salad is in its simplicity. There's no complicated cooking involved, just a matter of prepping the ingredients and letting their natural flavors shine. I always make sure to use the freshest shrimp I can find – pre-cooked and chilled shrimp from the supermarket works perfectly. The same goes for the vegetables; crisp, colorful, and bursting with freshness. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs – adding a bit of Vietnamese coriander or even some shredded lettuce can elevate the flavors further.
A Customizable Culinary Delight
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It's easily customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can adjust the amount of fish sauce to control the saltiness, or add a touch of chili flakes for a spicy kick. If you're avoiding sugar, coconut sugar is a great alternative. And if you have any leftover cooked chicken or tofu, feel free to substitute the shrimp for a protein-packed vegetarian twist.
Beyond the Bowl: Serving Suggestions
Goi Tom is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a standalone dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing side to a heartier meal. I often serve it with grilled fish or chicken, or as a topping for rice noodles. You can also add a handful of crispy wonton strips for an extra textural element.
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
This recipe has become a staple in my household. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious option that doesn't compromise on flavor. The vibrant colors alone make it a feast for the eyes, and the fresh, crunchy texture is a delightful contrast to the tender shrimp. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, this Vietnamese Shrimp Salad is a recipe that you'll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and I’m sure it'll become a favorite in your kitchen too. Enjoy!
