Spicy Rambutan & Shrimp Salad
This vibrant Spicy Rambutan & Shrimp Salad is a refreshing and lean meal, perfect for a warm day. It beautifully balances the exotic sweetness of rambutan with succulent shrimp, crisp greens, and a zesty, spicy lime dressing.
For 2 servings
If using raw shrimp, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque. Drain immediately, rinse with cold water, and pat dry. If using large shrimp, you may halve them lengthwise.
Prepare the rambutan by peeling them and carefully removing the seed from the center. Halve the rambutan flesh and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, fish sauce, granulated sugar, and red pepper flakes until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust for desired sweetness, sourness, and spice.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, halved rambutan, mixed greens, chopped fresh mint, chopped fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced red onion.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Divide the salad among serving plates. Garnish generously with the chopped roasted peanuts.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For maximum freshness, chill all your salad ingredients (shrimp, rambutan, greens) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before assembling the salad.
- 2Adjust the spice level to your preference; you can increase the red pepper flakes or add finely minced fresh bird's eye chili for more heat, or reduce it for a milder salad.
- 3To prevent the greens from wilting, add the dressing just before serving and toss gently. Over-dressing or letting it sit too long can make the salad soggy.
- 4When selecting rambutan, look for fruits with vibrant red skin and soft, pliable spines. Avoid any with black spots or dry, brittle spines.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute shrimp with grilled chicken breast, pan-seared tofu, or even flaked crab meat for a different protein profile.
Fruit AlternativeFruit Alternative
If rambutan is unavailable, fresh lychee or ripe mango cubes can be used as a sweet and juicy substitute.
Vegetable AdditionsVegetable Additions
Enhance the salad with thinly sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Shrimp provides a significant amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety, helping you feel full longer.
Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants
Rambutan is a good source of Vitamin C, while mixed greens and herbs offer a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and immunity.
Digestive Health Support
The high fiber content from the mixed greens and rambutan aids in healthy digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
You can prepare the dressing and chop all the solid ingredients (shrimp, rambutan, herbs, onion) a few hours in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.
