Vietnamese-style shrimp salad

Vietnamese-style shrimp salad features succulent shrimp paired with mixed greens, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all coated in a tangy dressing. This refreshing dish is perfect as a light meal or starter.

03 Dec 2025
Cook time 1 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

32 oz shrimps
1.50 cups mixed greens (or salad mix)
1 carrot
1 onion
1/4 cup coriander leaves
2 tbsp spearmint
1/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp water
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers

Vietnamese-style shrimp salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines succulent shrimp with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a starter for dinner. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, bringing together the sweetness from shrimp, the crunch from veggies, and the zing from herbs and spices.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Drain the shrimp and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Once cooled, drain the shrimp from the ice bath and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, julienned carrot, thinly sliced onion, chopped coriander leaves, and chopped spearmint.

3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, vinegar, fish sauce, water, minced garlic, and sliced red hot chili peppers until the sugar is fully dissolved.

4. Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooked and cooled shrimp to the bowl with the mixed greens and vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Garnish with additional coriander or mint leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

This Vietnamese-style shrimp salad is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs tossed in a tangy, spicy dressing makes it a memorable dish. Serve it as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal, and it's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the balance of flavors and health benefits that this vibrant salad offers!

Vietnamese-style shrimp salad FAQ:

How long should I cook the shrimp for in this salad?

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes in boiling salted water until they turn pink and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking to ensure they remain tender.

Can I substitute ingredients in the salad?

Yes, you can substitute mixed greens with other greens like romaine or spinach. Other herbs like basil can replace the spearmint. Adjust the dressing ingredients based on availability to suit your taste.

How do I store leftover shrimp salad?

Store leftover shrimp salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables may become wilted, so it’s best to consume it fresh.

What is the purpose of the ice bath for the shrimp?

The ice bath stops the cooking process immediately after boiling, preventing the shrimp from becoming tough or overcooked. This helps maintain their tender texture.

What can I use instead of fish sauce for a vegetarian option?

You can replace fish sauce with a combination of soy sauce and a splash of lime juice for a similar umami flavor, making it suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Tips:

- To ensure the shrimp are tender and juicy, avoid overcooking them. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.

- For added freshness, chill the salad ingredients in the refrigerator before assembling the salad.

- Feel free to customize the vegetable mix. Bell peppers, cucumber, or radish can add more crunch and color.

- If you prefer a less spicy salad, reduce the number of red hot chili peppers or remove the seeds before chopping.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Just make sure to rinse them in cold water before adding to the salad.

- Let the salad marinate in the dressing for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 240kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 1.31g
Sugar 16g
Fat 2.48g

Vietnamese-style shrimp salad