Iranian-style Spicy Shrimp Salad

Ingredients

In this Iranian adaptation of Phla kung, we incorporate traditional Persian spices and flavors to create a unique fusion dish. The original Thai dish is typically spicier and uses ingredients like fish sauce and lemongrass, which are replaced with Persian spices and lime juice in this recipe. The addition of Persian herbs like mint and parsley adds a fresh and aromatic element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Phla kung, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large salad bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, mint leaves, and parsley leaves.
4. 4.
   Add the cooked shrimp to the salad bowl and gently toss to combine.
5. 5.
   Serve the Iranian-style Spicy Shrimp Salad chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to properly devein and remove the shells before marinating. This will ensure a clean and enjoyable eating experience.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of spices used in the marinade.
• Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for additional flavor variations.
• Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce for added freshness and presentation.
• This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving advice

Serve the Iranian-style Spicy Shrimp Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. It pairs well with warm pita bread or Iranian flatbread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, garnish with additional mint and parsley leaves, and sprinkle some paprika on top for a pop of color. Serve it chilled to enhance the vibrant appearance.