Thai-Style Herb Dressing

by Terese Allen

Spring 2020 Issue

Prep time: 15 minutes

Serves: 6

Something special happens when cilantro, mint and basil are combined—a sparky fresh flavor that’s familiar to Southeast Asians and a happy surprise to the uninitiated.

Ingredients

2 tsp. minced garlic

1 or 2 fresh chilies (Thai, jalapeño, serrano, etc.), seeded and minced

3 Tbsp. rice vinegar

2 Tbsp. peanut or olive oil

2 Tbsp. dark sesame oil

1 Tbsp. bottled fish sauce

1 Tbsp. tahini or peanut butter

2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil

Makes about 3/4 cup

Directions

Use a fork or the flat of a large knife to press the minced garlic against a cutting board. Keep spreading it out and pressing it until it becomes a paste. Scrape up the garlic and transfer it to a small mixing bowl. Whisk in the remaining ingredients. Makes about 3/4 cup.