Delicious Thai Beef Salad Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Thai Classic

Looking for a fresh, zesty, and satisfying dish that’s light yet full of flavor? Thai Beef Salad, also known as Yum Nua, is the perfect answer. This vibrant dish combines tender slices of grilled beef with crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a bold, tangy dressing. Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner party or looking for a healthy weekday meal, Thai Beef Salad is sure to impress.

What Is Thai Beef Salad?

Thai Beef Salad is a popular dish in Thai cuisine, known for its harmonious blend of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet flavors—a hallmark of Thai cooking. The salad typically features thinly sliced grilled beef, mixed greens, cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, and fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, all tossed in a dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s rich in protein, low in carbs, and packed with fresh vegetables and herbs that offer vitamins and antioxidants.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Thai Beef Salad at home:

For the Salad:

• 1 lb (450 g) of flank steak or sirloin
• 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
• Optional: lettuce or mixed greens for serving

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (palm sugar is traditional)
• 1–2 Thai chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:
   Season the steak lightly with salt and pepper. Grill or sear it over high heat for 3–4 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, chilies, and minced garlic until the sugar dissolves.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, mint, and cilantro. Add the sliced beef and drizzle with the dressing. Toss everything gently to combine.
4. Serve:
   Serve immediately, either on its own or over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Thai Beef Salad

• Use fresh herbs generously: Mint and cilantro are essential for that authentic Thai flavor.
• Let the beef rest before slicing to retain its juices.
• Tweak the dressing to suit your taste: Add more lime for tang, or a touch more sugar if you prefer balance.
• Make it a meal: Serve with sticky rice or jasmine rice for a heartier option.

Nutritional Benefits

Thai Beef Salad is a smart choice for a healthy meal:

• High in protein from the beef
• Fresh herbs and vegetables provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants
• The dressing is low in fat and sugar, especially when made with fresh ingredients

According to the USDA, lean beef is an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which support muscle function and overall health.

A Dish Worth Sharing

Thai Beef Salad brings together the best of Thai cuisine—balanced flavors, fresh ingredients, and a satisfying yet healthy profile. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a Thai food enthusiast or a curious cook, this recipe is a must-try.