Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand with just one bite - a mouthwatering fusion of perfectly cooked pasta, succulent seafood, and a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds! This Thai Pasta and Seafood Salad isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that promises to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Whether you're a seafood lover, a pasta enthusiast, or simply someone craving an explosion of flavors, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or rice noodles)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp
- 1 cup cooked crab meat
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Chili flakes to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. If using spaghetti, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. If using rice noodles, soak them in hot water for about 5-7 minutes until softened, then drain.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the seafood. If you haven't already, ensure the shrimp and crab meat are cooked and ready to use. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in cold water or according to the package instructions before using.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help keep the pasta from becoming mushy in the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked shrimp, and cooked crab meat. Gently toss to combine.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and chopped cilantro to the bowl. The bell pepper adds a nice crunch and sweetness, while the cilantro provides a fresh flavor.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and seafood mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or chili flakes if desired.
- Serve the Thai Pasta and Seafood Salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful dish!
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to prevent overcooking and maintain a perfect texture.
- Seafood Selection: Use freshest shrimp and crab meat possible. If using frozen seafood, ensure thorough thawing and pat dry before adding to the salad.
- Dressing Balance: Taste your dressing before adding to the salad. The key is achieving a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors typical of Thai cuisine.
- Chill Factor: For enhanced flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving, allowing ingredients to marinate.
- Customization: Feel free to add extra vegetables like cucumber or green onions for additional crunch and freshness.
- Spice Control: Adjust chili flakes according to your heat tolerance - start conservatively and add more if needed.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime just before serving can elevate the entire dish's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 296kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 62mg
