Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad with Lime Dressing

A refreshing salad bursting with Southeast Asian flavors

This Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad combines the crunch of fresh herbs and vegetables with the zesty tang of a lime dressing, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 large banana blossom

thinly sliced and soaked in cold water with a squeeze of lime

1 cup shredded cooked chicken or tofu

for a vegetarian option

1 cup bean sprouts

rinsed and drained

1/2 cup fresh mint leaves

roughly chopped

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves

roughly chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

2 tablespoons fish sauce

(or soy sauce for vegan)

1 tablespoon sugar

2 cloves garlic

minced

1 red chili

finely sliced

For the Garnish

1/4 cup roasted peanuts

roughly chopped

Fried shallots

to taste (store-bought or homemade)

Preparation

Prepping the Banana Blossom

Remove outer layers

Remove the outer layers of the banana blossom to reveal the lighter petals inside.

Slice and soak

Thinly slice the banana blossom and immediately place in cold water with a squeeze of lime juice.

Soak and dry

Soak for 10 minutes, then drain well and pat dry.

Mixing the Dressing

Combine ingredients

In a small bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar.

Dissolve sugar

Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Add aromatics

Add minced garlic and sliced chili, mixing them in thoroughly.

Ensure all ingredients for the dressing are well mixed to balance the flavors. Adjust the level of chili to match your preference for spiciness.

Cooking Process

Preparing the Salad

Combine the banana blossom, chicken or tofu, bean sprouts, mint, and cilantro in a large bowl.

Adding the Dressing

Drizzle the lime dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure an even coating.

Garnishing

Top with roasted peanuts and fried shallots right before serving for extra crunch.

Plating & Serving

Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad with Lime Dressing

FaUtensils

Serve and Display

Serve the salad in a large, shallow dish allowing the vibrant colors to be displayed prominently.

Sauce Pairings

Extra lime wedges

for individual taste

Nuoc Cham

a traditional Vietnamese dip, if desired

Garnishes & Accompaniments

Lime zestRed chili slices

Perfect Sides

Steamed jasmine rice

Fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce