Spicy Mangosteen & Shrimp Salad
This vibrant Thai-inspired salad beautifully marries the exotic sweetness of mangosteen with succulent shrimp, fresh herbs, and a zesty, spicy chili-lime dressing for a truly refreshing and flavorful experience.
For 2 servings
If using raw shrimp, cook them quickly by boiling for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain, peel, and devein. If shrimp are large, cut them in half. Set aside.
Carefully peel the mangosteens and separate the white segments. Ensure no bitter pith remains. Set aside.
Prepare the fresh aromatics: thinly slice the shallot, finely mince the red bird's eye chili, and roughly chop the mint and cilantro leaves. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. Stir in the minced red chili. Taste the dressing and adjust for your preferred balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, mangosteen segments, sliced shallots, cherry tomatoes, chopped mint leaves, and chopped cilantro leaves.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Divide the salad between serving plates. Sprinkle generously with the roughly chopped roasted peanuts just before serving.
Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe mangosteens. They should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed.
- 2Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level. For less heat, remove the seeds; for more, add an extra chili.
- 3To prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery, ensure they are not overcooked. If cooking them yourself, remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- 4Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and combine just before serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, pan-seared firm tofu, or even flaked crab meat for a different protein base.
Vegetable BoostVegetable Boost
Add thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, or thinly sliced red bell pepper for extra crunch and vitamins.
Nutty TwistNutty Twist
Replace peanuts with toasted cashews or macadamia nuts for a different nutty flavor and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Mangosteens are packed with xanthones, powerful antioxidants that help combat free radicals and support cellular health.
Lean Protein Source
Shrimp provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety, with minimal fat.
Vitamin C & Immune Support
Lime juice and fresh herbs contribute Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and skin health.
Frequently asked questions
While fresh mangosteen is highly recommended for its unique texture and flavor, you can use frozen mangosteen segments if fresh are unavailable. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding to the salad.
