Name: Savory Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Sausages and Shrimps Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 200 grams Glass Noodles (Soak before cooking); 200 grams Sausages (Can substitute with tofu or chicken); 200 grams Shrimps (Juicy and tender); 2 pieces Shallots (Thinly sliced); 2 pieces Tomatoes (Cut into wedges); 1 bunch Thai Basil (Torn for serving); 1 bunch Cilantro Stems and Leaves; 50 grams Roasted Salted Peanuts (Optional, for garnish); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed); 2 tablespoons Fish Sauce; 1 tablespoon Palm Sugar (Can substitute with brown sugar); 1 teaspoon Kaffir Lime Zest; 2 pieces Kaffir Lime Leaves (Remove ribs before use); 1 stalk Lemongrass (Use tender white part); 1 piece Thai Chilies (1 red, 1 green, adjust for spice); 1 piece Galangal (Use dried, soaked before adding); 1 bunch Cilantro Roots

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There’s nothing quite like the vibrant experience of a Thai Glass Noodle Salad, especially when it’s filled to the brim with succulent shrimp and savory sausages. Just the thought of those chewy glass noodles tangled with aromatic herbs and zesty lime dressing makes my mouth water! This dish perfectly embodies the lively spirit of Thai cuisine, balancing a medley of flavors that are both refreshing and indulgent.

As the temperatures rise and summer picnics beckon, I find myself reaching for recipes that are not only delicious but adaptable to whatever I have on hand. What I love most about this salad is its versatility; you can easily swap in tofu for a plant-based meal or toss in your favorite seasonal veggies for extra crunch. Imagine how this colorful bowl can become the star of your next gathering! Let’s dive into the effortless preparation of a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds, while offering a delightful escape from everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad

Bright, Flavorful Burst: This salad is a vibrant explosion of taste, bringing together chewy glass noodles, succulent shrimp, and savory sausages, all coated in a tangy lime dressing.

Endless Versatility: Easily switch out the sausages for tofu or grilled chicken to cater to different dietary needs, making it perfect for any guest.

Quick and Easy: The straightforward preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying good company—ideal for summer picnics or weeknight dinners.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its refreshing flavors and stunning presentation, this salad will have your dinner guests raving and reaching for seconds.

Nutritional Balance: Each serving is not just delightful but also nutritious, harmonizing protein and carbs for a light meal that satisfies.

Explore More: If you enjoy this delightful dish, consider pairing it with an Apple Arugula Salad for a complete and energizing meal experience.

Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Glass Noodles – Essential for adding a chewy texture; soak before cooking for optimal softness.
• Sausages – Provide savory richness; can be substituted with tofu or chicken for those looking for adaptability.
• Shrimps – Juicy and tender; essential for adding depth to the salad’s flavors.
• Shallots – Introduces subtle sweetness and a delightful crunch when sliced thinly.
• Tomatoes – Cut into wedges for a juicy burst of freshness in each bite.
• Thai Basil – Contributes a fragrant, sweet-pine flavor; crucial for authenticity.
• Cilantro Stems and Leaves – Offer hierarchical herbal notes to elevate the taste.
• Roasted Salted Peanuts (optional) – Adds crunch and a contrasting texture; sprinkle on top right before serving.

For the Dressing
• Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty dressing that enhances all flavors.
• Fish Sauce – Essential for imparting that authentic umami taste typical in Thai cuisine.
• Palm Sugar – Introduces sweetness to balance the dish; can be replaced with brown sugar if needed.
• Kaffir Lime Zest – Infuses unique citrusy notes into the dressing, bringing vibrancy.
• Kaffir Lime Leaves – Enhances the dressing’s aromatics; always remove the ribs before use.
• Lemongrass – Adds a fresh citrus flavor; use only the tender white part for the best taste.
• Thai Chilies (1 red, 1 green) – Adds a spicy kick; adjust to your heat preference for the perfect balance.

For the Cooking
• Galangal – Provides a warm, peppery flavor; if using dried pieces, pre-soak before adding to your dish.
• Cilantro Roots – Boosts freshness and contributes significantly to the overall flavor profile of your salad.

Enjoy crafting this Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Sausages and Shrimps, perfect for any occasion!

How to Make Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad

Soak Noodles: Begin by placing the glass noodles in room temperature water for about 20 minutes. Soaking them properly ensures they soften to the perfect chewy texture for your salad.
Prepare Dressing: In a mortar, combine lemongrass, Thai chilies, kaffir lime zest and leaves, galangal, cilantro roots, and palm sugar. Grind until fine, then mix in freshly squeezed lime juice and fish sauce to create a zesty dressing.
Cook Sausages and Shrimps: Crumble the sausages and sauté them in a hot pan until nicely browned. Add in the shrimp, cooking until both proteins are fully cooked and juicy, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
Cook Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drain the soaked noodles and cook them in the boiling water for just 2 minutes. Once cooked, drain again and transfer the noodles to a mixing bowl.
Assemble Salad: Strain the prepared dressing over the noodles, then add the cooked shrimp and sausage mixture, shallots, and cut tomatoes. Toss everything together thoroughly before adding the remaining dressing, torn Thai basil, and cilantro for an herby finish.
Serve: Transfer the vibrant salad to a serving bowl. For added flair, optional garnish with extra slices of chili and a sprinkle of roasted salted peanuts for crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad

Perfect Noodle Texture: Always soak glass noodles adequately before cooking to ensure they have the ideal chewy bite, enhancing the overall salad experience.
Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the lime juice and palm sugar amounts according to your taste preferences—this Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad should reflect your unique flavor!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil for an aromatic touch. Fresh ingredients significantly elevate the salad’s flavor profile.
Sauté to Perfection: Cook sausages and shrimp until they’re just done—overcooking can lead to rubbery textures. You want both elements to remain juicy and flavorful.
Layer the Flavors: Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with dressing and flavor—this makes each bite a delightful experience!
Meal Prep Wisely: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the noodle’s texture.

What to Serve with Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Sausages and Shrimps?

Elevate your meal experience with delightful companions that harmonize beautifully with the vibrant flavors of this refreshing salad.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These bite-sized delights complement the salad’s texture, offering a crunchy contrast filled with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Coconut Rice: The creamy, slightly sweet coconut rice balances the tangy flavors of the salad, creating a delightful harmony of taste.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchinis add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the zesty dressing of the salad.
Lemongrass Tea: A refreshing beverage, this fragrant tea echoes the herbal notes of the salad while providing a soothing contrast to the flavors.
Mango Sticky Rice: This classic Thai dessert brings sweet, sticky rice and luscious mango together for a luscious end to your meal.
Thai Iced Coffee: The smooth and rich flavors of this coffee add a delightful sweetness that can balance out the bold spices in your salad.

Consider these options to create a well-rounded dining experience that celebrates the essence of Thai cuisine!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Sausages and Shrimps are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing and soak the glass noodles up to 24 hours in advance, making your salad assembly a breeze. Simply store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain flavor and freshness. The cooked sausages and shrimp can also be refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to store them separately from the noodles to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, mix everything together with fresh herbs and any remaining dressing, and voilà—you’ll enjoy a vibrant, refreshing meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the texture of the glass noodles.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad; the noodles and vegetables can become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor!

Reheating: If reheating, sprinkle a bit of lime juice and water over the salad to regain moisture. Gently toss before serving to revitalize the flavors of this Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad.

Preparation Tip: For optimal freshness, prepare the dressing and assemble the salad just before serving, allowing the ingredients to shine in their vibrant glory.

Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful salad to your taste and preferences!

Tofu Swap: Replace sausages with firm tofu for a plant-based alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken instead of sausages for a leaner protein option that adds smoky depth.
Veggie Crunch: Toss in bell peppers or sliced cucumbers for an extra crunch and burst of color. Fresh veggies also add wonderful nutrients!
Herb Boost: Add fresh mint or dill to elevate the flavor profile even further. They will bring a refreshing twist to each bite.
Peanut Lovers: For added nuttiness, sprinkle in some crushed peanuts or almond slices, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Adjust the Heat: Turn up the heat with a few extra Thai chilies or a dash of Sriracha for those who love a spicy kick!
Vegan Delight: Opt for soy sauce instead of fish sauce and maple syrup instead of palm sugar to create a truly vegan version without compromising on flavor.
Zesty Lime Punch: Add extra lime juice to the dressing if you crave more tang. It’ll brighten the entire salad and enhance the freshness!

Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Sausages and Shrimps Recipe FAQs

Why do I need to soak glass noodles?
Soaking glass noodles is crucial for achieving the best texture. By placing them in room temperature water for about 20 minutes, you allow them to soften fully, providing a chewy bite that enhances the overall enjoyment of the salad.

How should I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve it to maintain the desirable texture of the glass noodles.

Can I freeze the salad?
I recommend against freezing this salad. The noodles and fresh vegetables can become mushy when thawed, compromising the dish’s delightful texture and flavor. Enjoy it fresh for the best experience!

What should I do if the dressing is too strong?
If you find the dressing to be overpowering, a quick fix is to add a bit more lime juice or coconut water, which can help balance the flavors. You can also mix in additional cooked noodles or veggies to dilute the intensity—totally adaptable!

Do any ingredients have common allergens?
Yes, keep in mind that fish sauce can contain allergens, particularly for those with shellfish allergies. If you’re making this dish for guests with allergies, consider substituting the fish sauce with a mix of soy sauce and a dash of lime for a similar umami flavor.

How can I make this salad more filling?
Absolutely! You can add more protein by including grilled chicken or chunks of firm tofu. Additionally, tossing in more crunchy veggies, like bell peppers or snap peas, will not only increase the volume but also add extra nutrients and texture to your Savory Delicious Thai Glass Noodle Salad!