Phuket Breeze Salad
Introduction
Phuket Breeze Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish inspired by the beautiful coastal city of Phuket, Thailand. This salad captures the essence of the region with its bold flavors and aromatic ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner side. Influenced by Thai cuisine's balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, this salad brings together fresh produce, herbs, and a zesty dressing that will transport your taste buds straight to the shores of Phuket.
Ingredients
- Cucumber - 1, thinly sliced
- Green Papaya - 1 cup, shredded
- Mango - 1, diced
- Lime - 1, juiced
- Fish Sauce - 2 tbsp
- Sugar - 1 tbsp
- Red Chili - 1, finely chopped
- Roasted Peanuts - 1/4 cup, crushed
- Cilantro - A handful, chopped
- Mint - A handful, chopped
- Shrimp - 200g, cooked
Preparation
Begin by preparing all the components of the Phuket Breeze Salad. Thinly slice the cucumber and shred one cup of green papaya. Dice a ripe yet firm mango. Combine these in a large salad bowl, which will serve as the base of the salad.
In a small mixing bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the juice of one lime, two tablespoons of fish sauce, one tablespoon of sugar, and the finely chopped red chili. Whisk these ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl of cucumber, green papaya, and mango. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are well coated and the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Garnish
For the final touch, sprinkle the roasted peanuts over the salad. Add a generous handful of chopped cilantro and mint to add an aromatic lift to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
The Phuket Breeze Salad is best enjoyed chilled. Serve it immediately after preparation to experience the freshness of the ingredients at their peak. For those who appreciate a extra crunch, add additional peanuts or top with crispy shallots.
- Pair with a chilled white wine or a light Thai lager to enhance the tropical flavors of the salad.
- Serve as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with grilled tofu or a medley of more vegetables.
Conclusion
Whether you're craving a light, healthy meal or looking for a unique dish to impress your guests, this Phuket Breeze Salad is a must-try. Its combination of textures and flavors will not only satisfy your palate but also provide a delightful escape to the flavors of Thailand. Enjoy!