How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day to keep the ingredients fresh.

Can I substitute the prawns?

Yes, cooked chicken or fried tofu makes a good substitute for a vegetarian option.

Can this be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead, but combine and dress the salad just before serving for the best texture.

What if I can't find starfruit?

Pineapple or green apple can be used as a substitute for a similarly tangy flavor.

Is the dressing customizable?

Absolutely, adjust the ingredients to taste, or add more chili for extra heat.

Vietnamese Starfruit and Prawn Salad with Fresh Herbs

Name: Vietnamese Starfruit and Prawn Salad with Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: Large prawns; Starfruit; Cucumber; Bean sprouts; Red onion; Mixed fresh herbs; Fish sauce; Lime juice; Rice vinegar; Sugar; Garlic; Red chili; Crushed peanuts; Fried shallots

A refreshing and tangy salad perfect for a vibrant meal

This Vietnamese-inspired salad features sweet and sour starfruit, succulent prawns, and fresh herbs for a light and tangy appetizer.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Salad

Large prawns

200g, peeled and deveined

Starfruit

2 large, thinly sliced

Cucumber

1 small, thinly sliced

Bean sprouts

1 cup

Red onion

1 small, thinly sliced

Mixed fresh herbs

2 cups basil, mint, and cilantro

For the Dressing

Fish sauce

2 tablespoons

Lime juice

1 tablespoon

Rice vinegar

1 tablespoon

Sugar

1 tablespoon

Garlic

1 clove, minced

Red chili

1 small, finely chopped

For the Garnish

Crushed peanuts

2 tablespoons

Fried shallots

1 tablespoon

Preparation

Marinating the Prawns

Rinse and dry prawns

Rinse the prawns under cold water and pat dry.

Marinate prawns

Place prawns in a bowl, add a pinch of salt, and let marinate while preparing other ingredients.

Cook prawns

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook prawns for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.

Preparing the Dressing

Combine ingredients

Whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and chili in a small bowl.

Adjust seasoning

Adjust seasoning to taste with additional lime juice or sugar if desired.

Let flavors meld

Let the dressing sit to meld the flavors.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Prawns

Heat a nonstick pan over medium and cook prawns until they turn pink and slightly caramelize, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Merging Flavors

Toss prepared prawns and vegetables with the dressing in a large mixing bowl.

Final Assembly

Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fried shallots.

Plating & Serving