Imagine the fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine coming together in a delightful harmony of herbs, noodles, and a zesty dressing in this vibrant Vietnamese Herb Noodle Salad. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal, this recipe combines the aromatic essence of Vietnamese herbs with the comfort of noodles, creating a dish that is both satisfying and invigorating.
Vietnamese Herb Noodle Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice vermicelli noodles
– 1 cup mixed Vietnamese herbs (such as cilantro, Thai basil, mint, and perilla)
– 1 carrot, shredded
– 1 cucumber, julienned
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup fried shallots
For the dressing:
– 3 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 red chili, minced
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the dressing by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and minced red chili in a bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more lime juice or sugar if desired.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the shredded carrot, julienned cucumber, bean sprouts, and mixed Vietnamese herbs.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts and fried shallots on top of the salad for added crunch and flavor.
6. Serve the Vietnamese Herb Noodle Salad immediately, garnishing with extra herbs and a lime wedge if desired.
This Vietnamese Herb Noodle Salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The combination of fragrant herbs, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing creates a symphony of tastes and textures that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of Vietnamese-inspired recipes. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish, bringing a taste of Vietnam right to your own home!