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Vietnamese Herb Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Vietnamese Herb Salad

Vietnamese Herb Salad finds its roots in the everyday meals of Vietnamese households, where it's not uncommon to see a platter of fresh, vibrant greens gracing the center of the table. This dish is a staple in home kitchens, prepared with an instinctive touch for seasoning and a generous hand with the olive oil. It's a dish meant for sharing, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy its simple, yet profound flavors.

Expect a refreshing medley of textures and tastes, where the crisp greens are kissed by the brightness of lemon juice and the aromatic allure of fresh herbs. The olive oil lends a subtle richness, while a pinch of fine sea salt ties everything together. This salad is both a palate cleanser and a delightful accompaniment to heartier mains, offering a taste of Vietnam's everyday elegance.

Ingredients

  • 150 gmixed greens
  • 60 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by washing 150 g of mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel to dry. This ensures the greens remain crisp and fresh.
  2. Gather a selection of fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, and Thai basil. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a towel. Gently pluck the leaves from the stems, aiming for a mix that complements the greens in both flavor and texture.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Whisk together until the mixture is well-emulsified and slightly thickened. This will be your dressing, providing a bright, tangy flavor that balances the herbs.
  4. Place the dried mixed greens and herbs into a large salad bowl. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the top. Sprinkle fine sea salt to taste, starting with a small pinch and adjusting as needed after tasting.
  5. Using clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing coats every leaf. Be careful not to bruise the greens and herbs, as this will keep their texture intact and enhance their natural flavors.
  6. Transfer the salad to a serving platter, arranging it neatly for an inviting presentation. Serve immediately with fresh, crusty bread on the side to enjoy the vibrant, refreshing flavors of the Vietnamese Herb Salad.
Cover of Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Vietnamese volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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