Vietnamese Fresh Herb Salad

Ingredients

• 2 cups (60g) mixed fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil) 2 cups (60g) mixed fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil)
• 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts 1 cup (150g) bean sprouts
• 1 cucumber, julienned 1 cucumber, julienned
• 1 carrot, julienned 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peanuts (optional) 1/4 cup (30g) crushed peanuts (optional)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 9g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the mixed fresh herbs, bean sprouts, cucumber, carrot, and red chili.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top, if desired.
5. 5.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Vietnamese Fresh Herb Salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fresh herbs — Make sure to wash the herbs thoroughly and pat them dry before using. This will help retain their freshness and flavor.
• Bean sprouts — Trim off any roots or brown ends before using. Rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
• Cucumber and carrot — Julienne the vegetables into thin, matchstick-like strips for a visually appealing presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add more sliced red chili or include thinly sliced jalapenos.
• Customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or radishes.
• To make it a heartier meal, add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing according to your preference by adding more or less sugar and lime juice.
• If you have peanut allergies, omit the crushed peanuts or substitute them with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Vietnamese Fresh Herb Salad as an appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meats, spring rolls, or vermicelli noodles. It pairs well with a bowl of steamed rice for a light and refreshing meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter or individual plates, ensuring that the vibrant colors of the herbs and vegetables are showcased. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts and a few extra herb leaves for an added visual appeal.