Delightful Thai Beef Salad Recipe for Flavor Lovers

When you think of a dish that dances on your taste buds, Thai beef salad comes to mind. This vibrant meal bursts with fresh ingredients, tangy lime, and tender beef, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your palate singing. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly cooked beef, crisp vegetables, and a dressing that’s equal parts zesty and savory; it’s like a party in your mouth!

This salad is not just food; it’s an experience! Picture yourself enjoying it on a warm summer day or at a lively gathering with friends. The bright colors and refreshing aroma set the stage for a delicious adventure. Each bite is an invitation to indulge in the culinary delights of Thailand, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.

The last time I made this salad, my friend nearly did a happy dance after tasting it. I swear I saw her eyes sparkle!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Flank Steak: Choose well-marbled flank steak for tenderness and flavor; it cooks beautifully when grilled or pan-seared.

• Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for that signature herbal kick; you can substitute parsley if you’re not a fan.

• Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for their crispness and minimal seeds; they add refreshing crunch.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems provide sweetness and color; halving them enhances their juiciness.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness; soak them in water briefly to mellow the flavor if desired.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brings brightness; don’t skimp on this—it elevates all the flavors!

• Fish Sauce: This key ingredient adds umami depth; use sparingly, as its flavor can be intense.

• Chili Paste: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference; it gives the salad a delightful kick.

• Peanuts: Roughly chopped peanuts add crunch and richness; toast them lightly for extra flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Beef: Start by marinating the flank steak in lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste for about 30 minutes. This tenderizes the meat while infusing bold flavors.

Sear the Steak: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated steak for 3-4 minutes per side until you achieve your desired doneness—medium rare is ideal for tenderness.

Rest and Slice: Once cooked to perfection, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. This keeps every bite juicy!

Toss the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss gently to mix everything evenly.

Add Dressing and Beef: Drizzle your lime-fish sauce dressing over the salad mixture before adding the sliced beef on top. Give everything another gentle toss to coat all ingredients in glorious flavor.

Garnish and Serve!: Finish by sprinkling toasted peanuts over the top for added crunch. Serve immediately so everyone enjoys that fresh taste!

Now you have mastered this Thai beef salad recipe! It’s time to dig in and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes, then grill it while preparing the salad ingredients for efficiency and maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the beef for grilled shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation. You can also add extra herbs like mint or cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.

Sometimes, I whip up this Thai beef salad when friends come over, and they rave about its refreshing taste. It always sparks smiles and happy bellies!

FAQ

Can I make Thai beef salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep everything except dressing to keep vegetables crisp and fresh.

What type of beef is best for this recipe?

Tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin work best for optimal flavor and texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced Thai bird chilies or a dash of chili flakes to enhance heat levels.

Print

Thai Beef Salad

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Thai beef salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing. This delightful meal bursts with flavors that will awaken your taste buds, making it perfect for warm days or lively gatherings. Quick to prepare and visually stunning, it’s a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 large English cucumber, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup peanuts, roughly chopped

---

Instructions

1. Marinate flank steak in lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste for 30 minutes.
2. Heat grill or skillet over medium-high heat; sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness.
3. Let steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
4. Combine sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a large bowl.
5. Drizzle dressing over salad ingredients; add sliced beef and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with toasted peanuts and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute flank steak with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist. You can also add fresh mint or extra herbs for an additional burst of flavor.