Thai-inspired Caesar Salad

Ingredients

While the original Caesar Salad is known for its creamy dressing and croutons, this Thai-inspired version incorporates Thai flavors such as fish sauce, lime juice, and chili. The traditional romaine lettuce is complemented by the addition of fresh Thai herbs like cilantro and mint. This fusion salad brings together the best of both worlds, creating a refreshing and zesty dish. We alse have the original recipe for Caesar Salad, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces 2 cups (470ml) romaine lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (240ml) Thai basil leaves, torn 1 cup (240ml) Thai basil leaves, torn
• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh cilantro leaves 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh mint leaves 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup (120ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup (60ml) red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup (60ml) red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) roasted peanuts, crushed 1/4 cup (60ml) roasted peanuts, crushed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup (60ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• For the dressing: For the dressing:
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fish sauce 2 tablespoons (30ml) fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped 1 small red chili, finely chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 6g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, Thai basil, cilantro, mint, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crushed peanuts.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and chopped red chili to make the dressing.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the salad.
5. 5.
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Thai basil — Gently tear the leaves to release their aroma before adding them to the salad.
• Fish sauce — Use a high-quality fish sauce for the best flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
• Lime juice — Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for its bright and tangy flavor.
• Red chili — Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice tolerance. Remove the seeds for a milder heat.
• Roasted peanuts — For added crunch and flavor, lightly toast the peanuts in a dry pan before crushing them.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.
• Experiment with different Thai herbs like lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
• Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of coconut milk to the dressing mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Thai-inspired Caesar Salad as a light lunch or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Thai main course. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and crushed peanuts for an extra pop of color and texture.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter or individual plates, ensuring that the vibrant colors of the ingredients are showcased. Drizzle a little extra dressing over the top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an appetizing presentation.