Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad

Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad Recipe - Delicious and Exotic Flavors

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lime and cilantro with the crunch of peanuts and the succulent taste of shrimp. It's a perfect dish for a light lunch or dinner on a hot summer day.

History

This recipe is a fusion of Thai and Italian cuisines, combining the flavors of traditional Thai ingredients like fish sauce and cilantro with the classic pasta salad. It's a modern twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

2 oz (57 g) uncooked linguine
0.5 cup shredded carrot
8 oz (227 g) medium cooked and peeled shrimp
1 cup thinly sliced boston lettuce leaves
0.25 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 tbsp chopped unsalted dry-roasted peanuts
0.25 cup fresh lime juice
2 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1 tbsp chopped green onions
2.5 tsp sugar
2 tsp vegetable oil
1 tsp grated peeled fresh ginger
2 minced garlic cloves

How to prepare

Cook the pasta in boiling water for 9.5 minutes.
Add the carrot and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Drain the pasta and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the pasta mixture, shrimp, lettuce, cilantro leaves, and peanuts. Toss well.
In a jar, combine the lime juice and remaining ingredients.
Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously.
Pour the mixture over the pasta mixture, gently tossing to coat.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and add tofu or edamame for protein.
Add some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tropical twist.
Substitute the linguine with rice noodles for a gluten-free option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Make sure to toss the pasta salad gently to avoid breaking the shrimp or pasta.

- For a spicier kick, add some chopped Thai chilies or a dash of sriracha sauce to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad can be served as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a crisp white wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy in the salad.

- Marinate the shrimp in the dressing for a few minutes before adding it to the salad for extra flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fish sauce, you can substitute soy sauce or tamari.

- Use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

- Swap out the peanuts for cashews or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to toss it again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with extra cilantro leaves and a wedge of lime for a fresh and vibrant presentation. Serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad contains approximately 300 calories. It's a light and satisfying dish that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with only 25 grams per serving. The linguine provides the majority of the carbs in this dish.

Fats

With the addition of peanuts and vegetable oil, this dish contains 12 grams of fat per serving. The fats in this dish come from healthy sources like nuts and plant-based oils.

Proteins

The shrimp in this dish provides a good source of protein, with 20 grams per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the lime juice and cilantro. It also contains iron from the shrimp and peanuts, which is important for oxygen transport in the body.

Alergens

This dish contains shellfish (shrimp) and peanuts, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Overall, this Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a healthy and delicious option for a light meal.

Summary

This Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of pasta. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the secrets of cooking from my mother and grandmother. I had always been fascinated by the exotic flavors and ingredients of Thai cuisine, and this recipe seemed like the perfect opportunity to experiment with something new.

I first learned of this recipe from a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Patel, who had recently returned from a trip to Thailand. She raved about the incredible dishes she had tried there, and when she shared this recipe with me, I knew I had to give it a try. Mrs. Patel was a skilled cook herself, and I always admired her ability to effortlessly blend flavors and spices from different cultures.

I carefully copied down the ingredients and instructions for the Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad, making sure to pay attention to every detail. The combination of flavors seemed so unique and intriguing – from the tangy lime juice and fish sauce to the fragrant lemongrass and cilantro. I couldn't wait to recreate this dish in my own kitchen and share it with my family.

As I gathered the necessary ingredients – shrimp, pasta, vegetables, and herbs – I could feel my excitement growing. I followed the recipe step by step, sautéing the shrimp until they were perfectly cooked and tossing them with the cooked pasta and a medley of colorful vegetables. The aroma that filled my kitchen was simply intoxicating, and I knew I was onto something special.

When I finally plated the Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad and took my first bite, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors in my mouth. The sweetness of the shrimp, the crunch of the vegetables, and the tanginess of the dressing all came together in perfect harmony. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was filled with pride at my success in recreating it.

Over the years, I have made this Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all been equally impressed by its bold and vibrant flavors. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am always happy to whip up for a special occasion or just a quiet night at home.

As I look back on the journey that led me to discover this incredible recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have inspired and guided me along the way. From my mother and grandmother to Mrs. Patel and the countless chefs and cooks I have met over the years, each one has played a role in shaping my culinary skills and expanding my palate.

I am reminded of the power of food to connect us with different cultures and traditions, to evoke memories and emotions, and to bring joy and satisfaction to our lives. And as I continue to explore new recipes and techniques, I am excited to see where this culinary journey will take me next.

But for now, I will savor each bite of this delicious Thai Shrimp and Pasta Salad, grateful for the recipe that opened my eyes to the wonders of Thai cuisine and the joy of cooking. And I will always remember the sense of wonder I felt that first time I tasted it, knowing that it was the beginning of a lifelong love affair with food and all the magic it holds.