Dive into a burst of flavors with our vibrant "Squash Ribbons with Tomatoes, Peanuts, Basil, Mint, and Spicy Fish Sauce" recipe! This Thai-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. Imagine delicate zucchini ribbons tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy peanuts, and aromatic herbs, all drizzled with a zesty dressing that will leave you craving more. Whether you're looking for a light main course or a refreshing side salad, this quick and easy recipe, ready in just 25 minutes, is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish that’s bursting with freshness and flavor!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into ribbons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and trim the ends. Using a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer, thinly slice the zucchinis into long ribbons. Set the ribbons aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. Add the halved tomatoes to the bowl with the zucchini ribbons.
- Chop the peanuts coarsely and add them to the bowl. This will add a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Rinse the fresh basil and mint leaves under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl. Do the same with the mint leaves, tearing them into smaller bits to release their aromatic oils.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, and olive oil. This will create a flavorful dressing for your salad. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the zucchini, tomatoes, peanuts, basil, and mint in the large bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will also help soften the zucchini ribbons slightly.
- While the salad is resting, you can prepare a hot pan over medium heat. If you prefer a warm dish, you can lightly sauté the zucchini ribbons for 2-3 minutes until they are just tender but still vibrant in color. This step is optional.
- Once ready, serve the squash ribbons with tomatoes, peanuts, basil, and mint in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Drizzle any remaining dressing over the top for added flavor.
- Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Thai-inspired dish as a light main course or a side salad!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality zucchinis, tomatoes, and herbs. Look for firm zucchinis and vibrant cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation.
- Slice with Care: Use a sharp vegetable peeler or mandoline slicer to achieve thin, even ribbons of zucchini. This ensures they cook evenly and provide a delightful texture in your dish.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to rest for about 5 minutes after tossing in the dressing. This helps the flavors meld together and the zucchini ribbons soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste.
- Sauté for Warmth: If you prefer a warm dish, lightly sauté the zucchini ribbons for just 2-3 minutes. This adds a different dimension to the dish while keeping the vibrant color intact.
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or seeds. Almonds or cashews can be great alternatives to peanuts for a unique twist.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for an extra kick that complements the fish sauce beautifully.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it immediately after preparing. If you need to make it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 210kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
