Why make this recipe
Vietnamese Noodle Salad is a refreshing and light dish perfect for warm days. It’s packed with colorful vegetables, succulent shrimp, and fresh herbs, making it not only delicious but also healthy. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings. The combination of flavors from the lime, fish sauce, and herbs will surely delight your taste buds.
How to make Vietnamese Noodle Salad
Ingredients:
- 200g rice vermicelli noodles
- 100g cooked shrimp, peeled
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 carrot, julienned
- Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, basil)
- Lime juice
- Fish sauce
- Sugar
- Chili (optional)
- Peanuts (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shrimp, cucumber, carrot, and fresh herbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili (if using) to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together.
- Serve chilled, topped with crushed peanuts.
How to serve Vietnamese Noodle Salad
Serve Vietnamese Noodle Salad in a large bowl or individual plates. You can add extra herbs or adjust the amount of dressing according to your taste. It’s great as a main dish or a side. Don’t forget to sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added crunch!
How to store Vietnamese Noodle Salad
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy noodles. When ready to eat, mix everything together and add fresh herbs.
Tips to make Vietnamese Noodle Salad
- Make sure to rinse the noodles well under cold water to keep them from sticking together.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch.
- If you like it spicy, add some chili flakes or fresh sliced chili to the dressing.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and adding tofu. You can also use different protein sources like grilled chicken or beef, depending on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the noodles fresh.
2. What can I use instead of fish sauce?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos.
3. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp is a convenient choice. Just thaw and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the salad.