Cold Thai Pasta Salad

Pasta salads can have a variety of textures and tastes. The flavours of Thailand are showcased in this tangy dressing. Crisp vegetables and tender linguine pasta fill the pasta bowl to enhance any potluck or picnic. From Emily Richardson at Food and Drink

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 12  ounces linguine
• 1  lb  small  cooked shrimp, tails and shells removed
• 1  cup bean sprouts
• 1  red pepper, thinly sliced
• 1⁄2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2  green onions, sliced
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped of fresh mint
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped fresh coriander (optional)

• Thai Dressing

• 1⁄4 cup fish sauce
• 1⁄4 cup seasoned rice vinegar
• 1  tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  tablespoon lime juice
• 1⁄4 teaspoon  asian  chili paste

Directions

1. Cook linguine in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 10 minutes or until tender but firm (al dente).
2. Drain and rinse under cold water and drain well. Place in large bowl.
3. Add shrimp, bean sprouts, red pepper, cucumber, onions, mint and coriander, if using.
4. To make Thai Dressing:
5. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, lime juice and chili paste.
6. Pour over linguine, shrimp and vegetables and toss well to coat.
7. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.