Go Back
–+ servings

Easy Vietnamese Noodle Salad

Elaine Gordon
When it comes to enjoying Vietnamese noodle salad, pairing is crucial. Want a refreshing drink?
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine vietnamese
Servings 5
Calories 323 kcal

Equipment

  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups fresh mung bean sprouts
  • 2 medium carrots grated
  • 4 scallions sliced
  • 2 cucumbers peeled, seeded, and julienned
  • 12 oz thin Asian rice noodles
  • ½ cup fish sauce
  • ½ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 3 tbsp palm sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves minced or grated
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup chopped fresh mint

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

  • Begin by cooking the rice noodles. Follow the package instructions, usually involving boiling them for 4-6 minutes until they’re tender. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents them from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

  • In a mixing bowl, combine fish sauce, rice vinegar, palm sugar, minced garlic, chili flakes, lime juice, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves and everything is well-blended. This dressing will add a punch to your salad!

Step 3: Assemble the Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, place the cooked noodles, bean sprouts, grated carrots, sliced scallions, and julienned cucumbers. Pour the dressing over the top.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

  • Gently toss all the ingredients together until every noodle and vegetable is coated with the dressing. Be careful not to break the noodles apart too much.

Step 5: Add the Herbs

  • Finally, fold in the freshly chopped mint. This step elevates the dish with refreshing notes that make each bite delightful.

Step 6: Serve

  • You can serve immediately or let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This rest time allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to elevate your salad-making experience:
  • Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest vegetables, as they truly make a difference in taste.
  • Customize Protein: Add grilled shrimp or sliced chicken for a hearty dish. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian protein option.
  • Ensure Balanced Flavors: Taste the dressing before mixing in the salad. Adjust fish sauce, sugar, or lime juice as needed to hit your flavor profile.
  • Adjust for Spice: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of chili flakes.
  • Chill Before Serving: For an even fresher taste, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 323kcalCarbohydrates: 76gProtein: 6gFat: 0.8gSaturated Fat: 0.2gSodium: 2297mgFiber: 6gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 132IUVitamin C: 62mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Easy Vietnamese Noodle Salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!