This Thai Beef Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Tender, grilled beef is paired with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing that’s both tangy and slightly spicy. It’s a refreshing and healthy option that’s great for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish for your next barbecue!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing – Packed with fresh herbs and veggies.
- Bold flavors – A tangy, spicy dressing that’s irresistible.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy and light – Perfect for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal.
- Versatile – Great as a main dish or side salad.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the salad:
- Beef steak (sirloin, flank, or ribeye)
- Mixed greens or lettuce
- Cucumber, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Fresh mint, chopped
- Roasted peanuts, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the dressing:
- Lime juice
- Fish sauce
- Soy sauce
- Honey or brown sugar
- Garlic, minced
- Red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- Sesame oil
Directions
- Cook the beef:
Season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain. - Prepare the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and mint. - Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, red chili (if using), and sesame oil. - Assemble the salad:
Add the sliced beef to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine. - Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian option: Replace beef with grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Extra veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or avocado.
- Spicy kick: Add more red chili or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Nut-free: Omit the peanuts or replace with sesame seeds.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Serve cold or at room temperature. The beef can be reheated gently in a skillet.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh ingredients.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, any tender cut like sirloin, flank, or ribeye works well. - What can I use instead of fish sauce?
Use soy sauce or coconut aminos, but the flavor will be slightly different. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free. - Can I make this vegan?
Use tofu or tempeh and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos. - What can I serve with this salad?
Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or as a side to grilled meats.
Conclusion
This Thai Beef Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. With its tender beef, fresh herbs, and zesty dressing, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing side dish, this salad is guaranteed to delight. Enjoy!
Thai Beef Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Tossing
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This refreshing Thai Beef Salad combines tender slices of grilled beef with crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs, all tossed in a tangy, spicy lime dressing. It’s a perfect balance of savory, sour, spicy, and sweet flavors—ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1–2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
Instructions
-
Cook the Beef:
- Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper.
- Grill or pan-sear the beef over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness.
- Let the meat rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and chilies until the sugar dissolves.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mint, cilantro, and salad greens.
- Add the sliced beef and pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss gently to combine.
-
Serve:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs and sliced red chili if desired.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add roasted peanuts on top.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chilies.
- Use leftover grilled steak for a quick version of this salad.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *