Vietnamese Shrimp Salad: 5 Fresh Ways to Delight Your Tastebuds

Name: Vietnamese Shrimp Salad: 5 Fresh Ways to Delight Your Tastebuds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups mixed lettuce; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 clove garlic, minced

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 15, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, let me tell you, making Vietnamese shrimp salad is one of my absolute favorite things to whip up in the kitchen! There’s just something magical about the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each time I prepare it, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me as I chop the crisp vegetables and toss in those succulent shrimp. The combination of crunchy lettuce, tender shrimp, and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible!

vietnamese shrimp salad - detail 1

This salad isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s bursting with flavor! The zingy lime juice and savory fish sauce create a dressing that dances on your taste buds, while the fresh mint and cilantro add that extra pop of brightness. And can we talk about how quick and easy it is? In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that’s fresh, healthy, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a light lunch, a side dish for a gathering, or a refreshing dinner on a hot day. Trust me, once you try this Vietnamese shrimp salad, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen, too!

Ingredients for Vietnamese Shrimp Salad

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Vietnamese shrimp salad absolutely sensational! You’ll want to gather the following:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor!
2 cups mixed lettuce – I love using a mix of crunchy romaine and peppery arugula.
1 cup shredded carrots – freshly shredded adds a wonderful sweetness and color.
1 cup cucumber, sliced – crisp and refreshing, perfect for that crunch!
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves – this herb really brings the salad to life with its aromatic essence.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves – for that unmistakable Vietnamese flavor; it’s a game-changer!
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped – they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
2 tablespoons lime juice – freshly squeezed is always best; it brightens the whole dish!
2 tablespoons fish sauce – this is where the umami magic happens, so don’t skip it!
1 tablespoon sugar – just to balance out the flavors beautifully.
1 clove garlic, minced – because everything’s better with garlic, right?

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a vibrant salad that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrients!

How to Prepare Vietnamese Shrimp Salad

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of preparing this vibrant Vietnamese shrimp salad! It’s all about fresh ingredients and a few simple steps that come together to create a beautiful dish. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be tossing this salad together in no time!

Cooking the Shrimp

First things first, let’s cook those shrimp! Start by bringing a pot of water to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, carefully add in the peeled and deveined shrimp. You’ll want to boil them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn a lovely pink color. Keep a close eye on them because overcooked shrimp can get rubbery, and nobody wants that! Once they’re cooked, drain the shrimp and let them cool while you prep the veggies.

Preparing the Vegetables

Now, let’s move on to the vegetables. Grab your mixed lettuce and give it a good rinse, then tear it into bite-sized pieces. I usually mix in some crunchy romaine and peppery arugula for a delightful flavor combination. Next, take your carrots and shred them using a box grater or a food processor for a quick and easy job. For the cucumber, slice it thinly to add that perfect crispness. You’ll want everything to be fresh and vibrant, so don’t skip this step!

Making the Dressing

Okay, onto the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and minced garlic. This dressing is where the magic happens, balancing sweet, sour, and savory flavors beautifully. You want to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a splash more lime juice for zing or a pinch more sugar if you like it sweeter. It’s all about finding that perfect harmony!

Assembling the Salad

Now for the fun part—assembling your salad! In a large bowl, combine the torn lettuce, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and those beautiful shrimp. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together, making sure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. I like to sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top just before serving for that extra crunch. And voilà! You’ve got yourself a fresh and flavorful Vietnamese shrimp salad that’s ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this Vietnamese shrimp salad! Here are just a few:

Quick and Easy: You can whip this salad up in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh and Flavorful: Each bite is bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh herbs and vegetables, making it a delight for your taste buds.
Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from shrimp and loaded with veggies, this salad is a healthy choice that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand—swap out shrimp for chicken or add in your favorite veggies!
Beautiful Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes this salad not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing your guests.

Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk nutrition! This Vietnamese shrimp salad is not only delicious but also quite healthy. Each serving (about 1/4 of the salad) packs an estimated:

Calories: 250
Protein: 20g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. But overall, you’re looking at a nutritious dish that’s perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your Vietnamese shrimp salad turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are some of my pro tips:

Adjust the Fish Sauce: Fish sauce can be quite potent, so start with the recommended amount and taste as you go. You can always add a little more, but it’s hard to take it out!
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh mint and cilantro are key to bringing the salad to life, so don’t skimp on them! If you’re not a cilantro fan, feel free to substitute with basil for a different twist.
Chill the Ingredients: For an even fresher salad, you can chill your shrimp and veggies beforehand. This makes the salad super refreshing, especially on warm days.
Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it right after tossing. If you need to prep ahead, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Experiment with Crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy elements like bell peppers or shredded cabbage for extra texture!

With these tips, you’re all set to create a shrimp salad that’s bursting with flavor and freshness!

Variations of Vietnamese Shrimp Salad

The beauty of Vietnamese shrimp salad lies in its versatility! You can easily customize it based on your mood or what you have in the fridge. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Switch the Protein: While shrimp is a star, you can swap it for grilled chicken, tofu, or even beef for a heartier salad. Each protein brings its own unique flavor!
Add More Veggies: Get creative with your vegetables! Try adding bell peppers for a pop of color, radishes for a spicy crunch, or snap peas for extra sweetness. The more, the merrier!
Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of cilantro or mint, experiment with basil or parsley instead. Each herb will give your salad a distinct twist.
Citrus Zing: For a refreshing twist, add segments of orange or grapefruit. They’ll add a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory dressing.
Noodle Addition: Feeling extra hungry? Toss in some rice noodles or vermicelli for added heartiness. It makes for a filling meal that’s still light and refreshing!

These variations will keep your Vietnamese shrimp salad exciting and new every time you make it!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Vietnamese shrimp salad, the options are endless! I love pairing it with a side of crispy spring rolls for that perfect crunch and extra flavor. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving it alongside some fragrant jasmine rice or a bowl of vermicelli noodles. They soak up the delicious dressing beautifully!

For a refreshing drink, a tall glass of iced green tea or a zesty lemonade complements the vibrant flavors of the salad perfectly. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a light Asian-inspired soup, like a miso or hot and sour soup, to round out the meal. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dining experience!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store any leftover Vietnamese shrimp salad! First off, it’s best to store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember, if you have any leftover dressing, keep it separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy. This way, your shrimp salad will stay fresh for about 1-2 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, if the salad seems a little wilted, don’t worry! Just give it a quick toss with some fresh lettuce and a drizzle of the reserved dressing for a delightful refresh. Avoid reheating the shrimp salad; it’s best served chilled for that crisp, refreshing taste!