Ingredients and Weight:
- Mixed salad greens: 10 oz (about 2 cups)
- Grilled chicken breast: 8 oz (cut into bite-size pieces)
- Vietnamese shrimp paste: 2 tbsp
- Fresh lime juice: 1/4 cup
- Fish sauce: 1 tbsp
- Palm sugar: 2 tsp
- Minced fresh garlic: 1 tbsp
- Minced red chili peppers: 1 tbsp (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves: handful (optional)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for chicken) + preparation time
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the salad greens by washing and drying them thoroughly. Arrange on a serving plate.
- In a small bowl, combine the shrimp paste, lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and minced garlic. Mix well and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken by grilling or roasting it until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges. Allow to cool and cut into bite-size pieces.
- Arrange the chicken pieces over the salad greens.
- Top with the chili peppers and basil leaves (if using).
- Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad.
- Serve immediately or after a short refrigeration period for the flavors to blend.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values, may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
Calories: About 350 per serving (without accounting for specific portions of each ingredient)
Fat: 15g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: Depending on fish sauce and shrimp paste used
Dish Characteristics:
- Unique flavor combination of Vietnamese and American tastes, with a sweet-sour dressing and grilled chicken.
- The use of shrimp paste and fish sauce gives it an authentic Vietnamese touch.
- High in protein and fresh vegetables, making it a healthy option as well as tasty.
- Can be customized to individual tastes by adjusting the seasoning and adding more vegetables or proteins.
User Comments:
- "Love the combination of flavors! The dressing is so unique and goes perfectly with the grilled chicken." - John Doe, New York
- "This salad is a great way to introduce Vietnamese flavors to American palates. Highly recommended!" - Jane Smith, Los Angeles
- "The shrimp paste gives it a unique taste that I really enjoy. A great dish for a hot summer day." - Michael Johnson, San Francisco
- "I added some more vegetables like cucumber and carrot for extra crunch and flavor." - Emily Davis, Chicago
- "Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste!" - Robert Thompson, Boston (Note from chef: Yes, freshness is key!)
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients for best results, especially the shrimp paste and fish sauce which are key to the dish's flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning according to individual taste preferences, especially the amount of fish sauce which can vary in saltiness among brands.
- Grilling the chicken gives it a more authentic flavor but can be replaced with roasted chicken if preferred or for convenience purposes.
