Southeast Asian Summer: Spicy Glass Noodles with Herby Prawns

When the weather calls for something light but flavour-packed, this cold noodle salad answers beautifully. Inspired by Southeast Asian kerabu-style salads, it combines fresh herbs, prawns, and a punchy dressing bursting with chilli, lime, and umami depth.
The key to its complexity lies in the dressing: a blend of red chillies, anchovies, shallots, makrut lime leaves, lime juice, tamarind, and a splash of fish sauce. A touch of brown sugar balances the heat, while chilli sauce and olive oil bring it all together into a smooth, aromatic blend.
Glass noodles, once soaked, are tossed with basil, mint, coriander, cool cucumber chunks, and cooked prawns. The mixture is left to sit so the noodles and seafood soak up the dressing’s vibrant flavour.
This salad is ideal for hot days, quick lunches, or casual dinners. Just add sambal on the side for an extra fiery finish.