A refreshing and nutritious Vietnamese Herb Salad is the perfect dish to elevate your home dining experience. This vibrant salad combines a variety of fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing to create a flavorful and light side dish that complements a wide range of meals. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your dinner table or simply want to enjoy a healthy and delicious salad, this Vietnamese-inspired recipe is sure to impress.
Vietnamese Herb Salad
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (such as cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and perilla)
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots (store-bought or homemade)
**Dressing:**
– 3 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
**Instructions:**
1. Start by preparing the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, and vegetable oil until well combined. Set aside.
2. Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed fresh herbs, then chop them roughly or leave the smaller leaves whole for a more delicate presentation. Place the herbs in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the shredded red cabbage, thinly sliced cucumber, julienned carrot, and sliced red chili (if using) to the bowl with the fresh herbs.
4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the herb and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the dressed salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
6. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and crispy fried shallots over the top of the salad for added texture and flavor.
7. Serve the Vietnamese Herb Salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or pair it with grilled meats, rice noodles, or spring rolls for a complete meal.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more fresh herbs into your meals or simply want to try a new and exciting salad recipe, this Vietnamese Herb Salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will certainly impress your family and friends. Enjoy the vibrant colors, fragrant herbs, and zesty dressing that make this salad a standout dish for any occasion.
