Dive into the vibrant world of Thai cuisine with our Spicy Thai Squid Salad with Lemongrass! This tantalizing dish combines the tender, succulent flavors of squid with the zesty kick of lime and the aromatic essence of lemongrass, creating a refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a delightful meal, this recipe is sure to awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb squid, cleaned and sliced
- 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 red chili, sliced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the squid. If not already cleaned, rinse the squid under cold running water. Remove the head, tentacles, and any internal organs, then slice the squid into rings or bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will be your dressing for the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cleaned and sliced squid. Pour the dressing over the squid and gently toss to ensure all pieces are well coated. Allow the squid to marinate in the dressing for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the squid is marinating, prepare the lemongrass. Trim the ends of the lemongrass stalk and remove any tough outer layers. Finely chop the tender part of the stalk and set aside.
- In a skillet or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated squid to the skillet. Sauté the squid for about 2-3 minutes, or until it turns opaque and is just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as squid can become rubbery.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the squid cool slightly. In the same bowl used for marinating, add the chopped lemongrass, sliced red chili, and chopped cilantro to the cooked squid.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or fish sauce according to your preference.
- Transfer the Spicy Thai Squid Salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro and sliced chili if desired. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or light meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Squid: Opt for fresh squid when possible, as it significantly enhances the flavor and texture of the salad. If using frozen squid, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and cleaned.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the squid to marinate in the dressing for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the squid with the zesty and savory flavors of the fish sauce and lime juice.
- Don’t Overcook: When sautéing the squid, keep a close eye on it. Cook it just until it turns opaque (about 2-3 minutes) to avoid a rubbery texture. Remember, squid cooks quickly!
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of red chili according to your spice preference. For a milder salad, remove the seeds from the chili or use less of it.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh cilantro for the best flavor. You can also experiment with adding other herbs like mint or basil for a unique twist.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after preparation for the most vibrant flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 250mg
