Easy Spicy Thai Grapefruit Salad

Looking to bring a burst of flavor and refreshing zing to your table? This Spicy Thai Grapefruit Salad offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, harmonizing tangy grapefruit with the bold spices and vibrant herbs typically found in Thai cuisine. Perfect as a light meal or a vibrant side dish, this salad is a testament to the endless creativity and deliciousness of Thai cooking.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 large grapefruits
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 medium-sized carrot, julienned
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• A pinch of sea salt

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Grapefruit: Begin by peeling the grapefruits and sectioning them into segments. Remove the membranes to expose the juicy flesh and set aside in a large mixing bowl.

2. Combine the Vegetables: Add the shredded red cabbage, julienned carrot, and thinly sliced cucumber to the bowl with the grapefruit.

3. Add Fresh Herbs and Peanuts: Gently mix in the fresh mint and cilantro leaves, ensuring they are evenly distributed among the other ingredients. Sprinkle in the roasted peanuts for added crunch.

4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.

5. 

   Assemble the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

6. Add Some Heat: Top with thinly sliced red chili to your desired level of spiciness, and give the salad one final toss.

7. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy this refreshing and spicy concoction immediately for the best taste and texture.

Nutritional Value

This Spicy Thai Grapefruit Salad is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a healthy dose of vitamins, especially Vitamin C from the grapefruit. The inclusion of fresh vegetables provides fiber and antioxidants, while the peanuts add a source of healthy fats and protein. Overall, this salad is low in calories but high in flavor and essential nutrients, making it a great option for those conscious of their diet.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this zesty salad, consider pairing it with a few well-chosen side dishes or beverages:

• Side Dishes: A serving of jasmine rice or sticky rice can help balance the acidity and spiciness of the salad. Alternatively, Thai fish cakes or shrimp skewers can add a savory depth to your meal.

• Drinks: Pair the salad with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer that complements the citrusy flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing Thai iced tea or a lemongrass iced drink would pair nicely.

Indulge in this Spicy Thai Grapefruit Salad and celebrate the delightful flavors that Thai cuisine has to offer in a healthy and invigorating way!

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