Name: Thai Beef Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) beef sirloin or flank steak; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 4 cups mixed lettuce leaves, washed and torn; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional); 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tsp palm sugar or brown sugar; 1 small red chili, finely sliced (adjust to taste); 1 clove garlic, minced

Introduction

Thai Beef Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender beef with crisp lettuce and fresh herbs, all brought together by a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful dinner, this salad offers a wonderful balance of textures and bright flavors.

Ingredients

200g beef (sirloin or flank steak works well)
4 cups lettuce, chopped
1 cup mixed fresh herbs (such as mint, cilantro, and basil)
3 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 small red chili, finely sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Season the beef with salt and pepper, then cook it in a hot skillet or grill pan for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your preferred doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce and fresh herbs. Add the sliced beef on top.
Step 3: Whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili to make the dressing. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Serve immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy your delicious Thai Beef Salad.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add thinly sliced cucumber or red onion to the salad.
Swap out the beef for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce or omit the chili slices.
Marinate the beef briefly in a little garlic and soy sauce for added flavor before cooking.

Storage

Thai Beef Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. Reheat beef separately if desired, then toss with fresh lettuce and herbs.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different cuts of beef for this salad?

Yes, sirloin, flank, or ribeye steaks work well. Choose a tender cut that’s quick to cook and slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

You can prepare the beef and dressing ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before eating to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

Thai Beef Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 87 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Thai Beef Salad featuring tender, seared beef tossed with crisp lettuce and fresh herbs, drizzled with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light yet flavorful meal that combines savory, tangy, and aromatic elements in every bite.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients

Scale

Beef

8 oz (225g) beef sirloin or flank steak
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Salad

4 cups mixed lettuce leaves, washed and torn
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional)
1 small red onion, thinly sliced

Lime Dressing

2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp palm sugar or brown sugar
1 small red chili, finely sliced (adjust to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
Slice the Beef: After resting, thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, sliced chili, and minced garlic until sugar dissolves.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lettuce leaves, cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and sliced red onion. Add the sliced beef on top.
Toss and Serve: Pour the lime dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve immediately for the freshest flavors.