Noodle salad with passion fruit dressing and shrimp

Exotic Noodle Salad with Shrimp and Passion Fruit Dressing

I invite you to discover a vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for warm days or whenever you want to add a touch of the exotic to your plate. This noodle salad with shrimp and passion fruit dressing is not only a delicious choice but also an explosion of colors and flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 12 large whole shrimp (preferably frozen, but fresh is even better)
- 200 g thin rice noodles
- 3 passion fruits
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably sesame oil for added flavor)
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 cm fresh ginger
- 2 limes (for a fresh and tangy taste)
- 400 g carrots, green onions, and asparagus
- 100 g alfalfa
- 30 g fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 4 tablespoons yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)

Recipe History and Origin

This salad combines influences from various cultures, but its essence lies in the desire to blend fresh and healthy ingredients into a light and flavorful meal. The passion fruit, often considered a symbol of exoticism, adds a sweet-tart flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy shrimp. This recipe is ideal for those looking to explore new culinary combinations, as well as for those who appreciate a healthy, nutrient-packed meal.

Preparing the Shrimp

1. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them before cooking. A quick method is to leave them under cold water for 15-20 minutes.
2. Once thawed, remove the shell, leaving the head and tail intact. This not only makes preparation easier but also adds an attractive presentation.
3. Using a sharp knife, make a slit along the back of each shrimp and remove the vein for a cleaner taste and pleasant texture.

Preparing the Noodles and Dressing

1. In a large bowl, rehydrate the rice noodles in hot water for 10-15 minutes until soft. Then, drain them well.
2. Cut the passion fruits in half and use a teaspoon to scoop out the pulp. This will add an exotic note to your dressing.
3. In another bowl, add the passion fruit pulp, 2 tablespoons of oil, soy sauce, fish sauce, grated ginger, crushed garlic, and lime juice. Mix the ingredients well to achieve a smooth dressing.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of the dressing over the shrimp and let them marinate for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preparing the Vegetables

1. Cut the carrots into thin strips (julienne), and slice the green onions and asparagus into rounds. These vegetables not only add texture but also a colorful and appealing look to the salad.
2. In a large bowl, combine the carrots, green onions, asparagus, chopped mint, alfalfa, and drained noodles, adding the remaining dressing. Make sure all the ingredients are well integrated.

Cooking the Shrimp

1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them.
2. Cook the shrimp for 3 minutes, then flip them with a spatula. Add the sesame seeds and let them cook for another 3 minutes until they turn pink and juicy.

Serving

1. Serve the warm shrimp alongside the noodle salad on a large platter. You can add a spoonful of yogurt on top for a delicious and creamy contrast.
2. Make it visually appealing by garnishing with mint leaves or a few lime slices for decoration.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This noodle salad with shrimp can be served as an appetizer or as a main course. You can pair it with a refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or a lime cocktail, for a perfect contrast. Additionally, if you enjoy spicy dishes, you can add some chopped chili peppers to the mix.

Nutritional Information

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Shrimp are an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins. Passion fruit is rich in antioxidants and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. One serving contains approximately 300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and yogurt used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of noodles? Absolutely! You can substitute rice noodles with other types, such as wheat noodles or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- What other ingredients can I add? This is a versatile recipe, so you can experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or cucumbers.
- How can I store the salad? The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for a day, but it's best to add the dressing fresh before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.

Now that you have all this information, it's time to put on your apron and get cooking! This noodle salad with shrimp and passion fruit dressing is sure to become a favorite recipe in your kitchen, bringing a touch of sunshine to every meal. Enjoy!