Vietnamese Garlic Shrimp Noodle Salad
- Preparing Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Served Person: 2
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- pinch of salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 3 cups iceberg lettuce shredded
- 1 tbsp caster sugar
- 12 - 15 medium shrimp (prawns) shelled and deveined (about 5 - 7 oz / 150 - 200g, excluding shells)
- 1 large garlic clove very finely chopped
- 1 tsp very finely chopped red chili adjust to taste (i use birds eye which is spicy)
- 2.5 oz / 75g dried rice vermicelli noodles (note 1)
- 1 cup carrot cut into fine matchsticks
- 1 1/2 cups cucumber cut into matchsticks
- 1 1/2 cups beansprouts
- 1/4 cup coriander leaves lightly packed
- 1/4 cup mint leaves (ordinary or vietnamese) lightly packed
- Carbohydrate 15.0144000101855 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.89637500079089 g
- Fiber 1.56750004837138 g
- Protein 3.24945000551995 g
- Saturated Fat 0.260235000106917 g
- Serving Size 1 1 - 3 (239g)
- Sodium 2793.0737579929 mg
- Sugar 13.4468999618141 g
- Trans Fat 0.111770000044595 g
- Calories 85 calories
My Go-To Vietnamese Garlic Shrimp Noodle Salad: A Quick and Refreshing Meal
As a busy working mom, finding quick and healthy meals is always a priority. This Vietnamese Garlic Shrimp Noodle Salad has become a staple in our household, a vibrant and flavorful dish that's ready in under 30 minutes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – fresh, readily available ingredients combine to create a culinary masterpiece that's both satisfying and light. I often make a large batch on the weekend and pack individual portions for lunches throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a symphony of tastes that improve with time, making it perfect for meal prepping.
The secret to this recipe's success? It's the balance. The sweet, tangy dressing perfectly complements the succulent shrimp and crunchy vegetables. The rice vermicelli noodles provide a delicate base, absorbing the delicious flavors of the sauce. I love the textural contrast – the soft noodles, the juicy shrimp, the crisp vegetables – it's a real feast for the senses. And it's so adaptable! If I'm feeling adventurous, I'll add some shredded chicken or tofu for extra protein. Sometimes, I’ll swap out the iceberg lettuce for spinach or romaine for a slightly different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond its deliciousness, this salad is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for a light lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a refreshing appetizer at a party. I've even served it to friends and family, and it's always a huge hit. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, too. It's the kind of dish that makes people ask for the recipe, and I'm always happy to share.
The shrimp cooks in a flash, ensuring they retain their tenderness and delicious flavor. I usually buy pre-shelled and deveined shrimp to save time, but if you prefer, you can certainly do it yourself. The preparation is a breeze, and the end result is a dish that's far more impressive than the effort it takes to make. The dressing, a simple mixture of lime juice, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar, is the star of the show. It's tangy, sweet, and savory all at once, and it perfectly complements the other ingredients.
This salad is more than just a meal; it's a reminder to slow down and savor the simple pleasures in life. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. It’s a quick escape to the flavors of Vietnam without ever leaving your kitchen. I encourage you to try it, and I'm confident it will become a new favorite in your household, too. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that’s as satisfying as it is simple. It's a recipe that truly embodies the best of Vietnamese cuisine: fresh, flavorful, and utterly delightful. This Vietnamese Garlic Shrimp Noodle Salad is a testament to how easily accessible and delicious healthy eating can be. Try it today and discover a new favorite!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more chili for extra heat.
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, tofu, or pork.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add more vegetables.
- Prep ahead: Chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance.
- Customize your greens: Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as butter lettuce or romaine.
This Vietnamese Garlic Shrimp Noodle Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home mom, or simply someone who appreciates a flavorful and healthy meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!
Step-by-step
- Combine the Garlic Shrimp ingredients in a small bowl and set aside for 10 minutes.
- Combine the Dressing ingredients in a small jar, give it a shake then set aside for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet / fry pan over high heat. Add the shrimp, scraping in the olive oil and garlic from the sides of the bowl.
- Cook for 2 minutes, or until browned and the shrimp is just cooked through.
- Remove the prawns from the skillet onto a plate.
- Prepare the vermicelli noodles according to the packet directions.
- Then drain the noodles.
- Arrange the noodles and remaining Salad ingredients on a large plate or toss together in a bowl.
- Top with prawns (warm or at room temperature).
- Drizzle over the Dressing (or toss through), or you can serve the Dressing on the side.
- Serve immediately.
