Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and balanced taste profiles. One of the most delightful dishes that embodies these characteristics is the Vietnamese Noodle Salad, complemented by a zesty and tangy dressing. This salad is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, combining the crispiness of fresh vegetables with the chewiness of rice noodles, all brought together by a tangy, slightly sweet, and spicy dressing. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a refreshing dinner.
Ingredients
Salad:
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Tangy Dressing:
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional)
Directions
1. Cook the Rice Noodles: Begin by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to halt further cooking. Set the noodles aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, julienned cucumber, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, chopped mint, and chopped roasted peanuts.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and finely chopped red chili (if using). Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled rice noodles to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the tangy dressing over the top and toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad just before serving. Enjoy the salad fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: 210 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4
Tips
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, lettuce, and shredded cabbage all work well.
• Protein Boost: For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance, but combine them with the noodles just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili in the dressing to control the heat according to your taste.
Benefits
This Vietnamese noodle salad is not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits:
• Low in Calories: With only 210 kcal per serving, it’s a great option for a light meal.
• Rich in Nutrients: The salad provides a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.
• Hydrating: The high water content in cucumbers and other veggies helps keep you hydrated.
• Digestive Health: The ginger and garlic in the dressing aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad vegan?A: Yes, simply replace the fish sauce with a vegan fish sauce or soy sauce.
Q: How long can I store this salad?A: It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store the undressed salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. Combine just before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of noodle?A: While rice noodles are traditional, you can use other noodles like soba or vermicelli as a substitute.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and fish sauce.
Conclusion
The Vietnamese Noodle Salad with a Tangy Dressing is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is both simple to make and delightful to eat. It captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its fresh ingredients and harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a healthy side, or a meal prep option, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the vibrant taste and the health benefits that come with each bite!