How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate if possible.

Can I make this salad ahead?

Prepare all components and store them separately; mix just before serving.

What if I don’t have fish sauce?

Soy sauce can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions for extra protein.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice vermicelli and check your fish sauce for gluten.

Citrus-Zest Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad with Peanuts and Fresh Herbs

Name: Citrus-Zest Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad with Peanuts and Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients: Rice vermicelli noodles; Water for boiling; Cucumber; Carrot; Bean sprouts; Red bell pepper; Lime juice; Fish sauce; Brown sugar; Garlic; Lime zest; Red chili; Mint leaves; Cilantro leaves; Roasted peanuts

A Refreshing Salad Bursting with Flavors and Textures

This vibrant Vietnamese salad combines the goodness of fresh herbs, citrusy notes, and crunchy peanuts with vermicelli noodles, making for a light yet satisfying dish.

35 minutes
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Noodles

Rice vermicelli noodles

200g

Water for boiling

As needed

For the Vegetable Mix

Cucumber

1 large, julienned

Carrot

1, julienned

Bean sprouts

100g

Red bell pepper

1, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

Lime juice

3 tablespoons

Fish sauce

2 tablespoons

Brown sugar

1 tablespoon

Garlic

1 clove, minced

Lime zest

1 teaspoon, grated

Red chili

1 small, finely sliced

For the Garnish

Mint leaves

½ cup, fresh

Cilantro leaves

½ cup, fresh

Roasted peanuts

100g, roughly chopped

Preparation

Marinating the Dressing

Combine Dressing Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, lime zest, and chili.

Stir to Dissolve Sugar

Stir until sugar is dissolved.

Set Aside

Set aside for flavors to meld for about 10 minutes.

Preparing the Vegetables and Noodles

Cook Noodles

Cook the rice vermicelli according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Ensure that the noodles are rinsed under cold water to prevent them from sticking.

Combine Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine cucumber, carrot, bean sprouts, and bell pepper.

Add Noodles

Add the prepared noodles and mix gently.

Toast the peanuts lightly for extra crunch and flavor.

Cooking Process

Preparing Noodles

Boil noodles and rinse them under cold water.

Mixing Vegetables

Combine all cut vegetables in a large bowl.

Dressing and Final Touches

Toss the salad with dressing and top with herbs and peanuts.

Plating & Serving