This simple Thai salad consists of fried eggs and sliced vegetables such as onions and carrots, as well as a generous amount of freshly chopped cilantro and various greens. The salad is drizzled with a dressing that usually combines lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and fresh chili peppers.

Yam khai dao can be prepared with duck or chicken eggs, and although it can be served with rice and enjoyed as a light main course, it can also accompany various meat-based Thai dishes.