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Sweet, Tart, and Spicy Shrimp and Cucumber Salad

This healthy sprightly salad has a distinctly Asian kick to it. One of the best things about it is you can add just about any veggies you have—just be sure to cut them up into bite-size pieces. The dressing also makes a terrific marinade for fish or chicken.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

For dressing

1/4 cup fresh lime juice
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
2 tablespoons Asian fish sauce, such as nam pla or nuoc mam
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon finely grated lime peel
1 teaspoon hot chile paste, such as sambal oelek
1 teaspoon grated peeled fresh ginger

For salad

2 pounds (about 8) Persian or Japanese cucumbers
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3/4 cup lightly salted roasted peanuts
1 pound cooked deveined peeled medium shrimp
4 cups thinly sliced napa cabbage
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into matchsticks
3 green onions, cut into matchsticks
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup torn fresh Thai or regular basil leaves
2 teaspoons black sesame seeds, toasted

Preparation

  1. Make dressing

    Step 1

    Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a small bowl; let the dressing stand while preparing the salad.

  2. Make salad

    Step 2

    Peel half of the cucumbers; cut in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds with a small spoon. Cut into 1/4-inch cubes (about 2 cups) and place in a large strainer set over a bowl.

    Step 3

    Cut off the ends from the remaining cucumbers and cut in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds. Cut the halves crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices (about 2 1/2 to 3 cups); add to the strainer. Sprinkle with the salt; let drain 30 minutes.

    Step 4

    Heat the oil in a heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the peanuts; sauté until golden. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the peanuts to paper towels to drain.

    Step 5

    Combine the shrimp, cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and basil in a large bowl.

    Step 6

    Pat the cucumber pieces dry and add to the salad. Toss with the dressing; sprinkle with peanuts and black sesame seeds, and serve.

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