After a long week of juggling work and chores, I found myself yearning for something light yet satisfying—something vibrant that would awaken my taste buds without adding on the calories. That’s when I whipped up this Refreshing Vermicelli Noodle Salad. The moment I tossed together those delicate noodles with a rainbow of fresh vegetables, I knew I had stumbled upon a culinary gem.
With only 170 calories per serving, this salad is not just healthy; it’s a vibrant feast for the senses! Each bite offers a delightful crunch, enhanced by the tangy Asian-inspired dressing that brings it all together. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish to complement your favorite Asian dishes or a light meal that feels special, this salad ticks all the boxes. And the best part? You can easily customize it with whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand! Let’s dive into making this delicious salad that is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why is Vermicelli Noodle Salad a Must-Try?
Light and Refreshing: This salad is an explosion of fresh flavors, perfect for warm days or when you want a quick, satisfying meal.
Customize to Your Liking: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your fridge’s contents, such as swapping in leftover proteins or seasonal veggies.
Quick to Prepare: With simple steps, this salad can be on your table in no time—ideal for busy weeknights!
Low Calorie: At just 170 calories per serving, you can indulge without the guilt, making it a fantastic choice for health-conscious eaters.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its vibrant appearance and flavors make it a hit at gatherings, complimenting various dishes effortlessly.
Vermicelli Noodle Salad Ingredients
• Get ready to create a vibrant dish!
For the Salad
- Vermicelli Noodles – The backbone of the salad; any thin rice noodle works, but Wei Wei brand is preferred for authentic taste.
- Cabbage (white/green) – Crisp and mild; if unavailable, iceberg lettuce offers a nice crunch.
- Shredded Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color; grated zucchini is a great low-carb substitute.
- Bean Sprouts – Brings a fresh, crunchy texture; snow peas or snap peas can switch up the flavor profile.
- Green Onions – Adds a gentle onion flavor; chives make for a pleasant alternative.
- Coriander/Cilantro – Infuses the salad with fresh herbal notes; mint or Thai basil can also be delightful substitutes.
For the Dressing
- Light Soy Sauce – Offers savory depth; you can use regular soy sauce, but it’ll darken the dressing.
- Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy acidity; lime juice or mild apple cider vinegar can also work well.
- Sugar – Balances the dressing; honey or agave syrup can be a sweeter replacement.
- Grapeseed Oil – Ensures a smooth dressing texture; any neutral oil will do, like canola or vegetable oil.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; always choose fresh minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Birds Eye Chilli – For those who like it spicy; you can omit or replace it with visually appealing red chili slices.
For Garnish
- Fried Asian Shallots – Adds a crunchy richness; toasted sesame seeds can be a tasty alternative.
How to Make Vermicelli Noodle Salad
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Prepare Dressing: In a jar, combine light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, grapeseed oil, minced garlic, and Birds Eye chili. Shake well and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Cook Noodles: Soak vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 2 minutes, or until they soften. Once done, drain well and set aside to eliminate excess moisture.
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Combine Salad: In a large bowl, toss together the cooked vermicelli noodles, shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, and coriander until everything is evenly mixed.
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Toss & Serve: Just before serving, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. For an extra crunch, garnish with fried Asian shallots.
Optional: Serve chilled for a refreshing treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vermicelli Noodle Salad Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful salad to make it uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute vermicelli noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free version full of flavor.
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Extra Crunch: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or cucumbers for added texture and visual appeal. These additions can introduce a refreshing crispness that complements the salad beautifully.
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Fruit Twist: Mix in sliced mango or pineapple to enhance the sweetness, making it a delightful summer dish bursting with tropical goodness.
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Protein Boost: Toss in shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu to turn this salad into a fulfilling main course. Elevating the protein content makes it not only more satisfying but also a deliciously complete meal.
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Herb Alternatives: Switch out coriander for mint or Thai basil for a fresh flavor twist that complements the Asian dressing perfectly. Each herb can transform the salad and keep it exciting!
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Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat level by adding more Birds Eye chili or try jalapeños for a bolder flavor. This can create a vibrant and spicy variation that digital food lovers will savor.
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Creamy Dressing: For a richer dressing, mix in a spoonful of peanut butter with the existing dressing ingredients. This adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
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Vegan Substitute: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup to keep the salad vegan-friendly while maintaining its delightful sweetness. The salad remains just as delightful, without compromising your dietary choices.
Storage Tips for Vermicelli Noodle Salad
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Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and avoid soggy noodles.
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Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Vermicelli Noodle Salad, as the noodles and vegetables lose their texture and quality when thawed.
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Reheating: If you prefer a warm version, briefly toss the salad in a frying pan over low heat, just until warmed through. But for best results, serve it chilled.
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Leftovers: Incorporate leftover salad into wrap sandwiches or stir-fry for a tasty twist the next day, ensuring you enjoy every morsel!
Expert Tips for Vermicelli Noodle Salad
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Drain Well: Make sure to thoroughly drain the vermicelli noodles after soaking; excess moisture can lead to a watery salad. Patting them dry with a tea towel can help.
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Customize Flavor: Feel free to add leftover proteins like shredded chicken or tofu for a heartier dish. Customize the salad to fit your preferences and make this Vermicelli Noodle Salad truly your own.
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Dressing Prep: Prepare the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for enhanced flavor. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best taste. Crunchy veggies like shredded cabbage and carrots elevate the overall texture and flavor.
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Spice Control: Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of Birds Eye chili. Omit it altogether for a milder version, making it friendly for the whole family.
Make Ahead Options
This Refreshing Vermicelli Noodle Salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to save time during the week! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it, as the flavors deepen beautifully. Chop the vegetables—cabbage, carrots, and green onions—up to 24 hours in advance; store them in airtight containers to maintain their crunch. While the vermicelli noodles should be cooked just before serving to prevent them from clumping, you’ll find that combining everything and tossing with dressing only takes a few minutes when you’re ready to enjoy! Simply mix and serve for a satisfying meal that feels freshly made even on the busiest of nights.
What to Serve with Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
This vibrant salad is perfect for creating a delightful, well-rounded meal, bringing fresh flavors and textures to your table.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and smoky, these skewers complement the salad’s refreshing crunch and add satisfying protein to your meal.
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Teriyaki Salmon: The sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki salmon enhances the tangy notes of the salad, making for a harmonious duo.
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Tofu Stir-Fry: For a delightful vegetarian option, crispy tofu stir-fried with seasonal vegetables pairs beautifully with the salad’s lightness.
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Spring Rolls: Fresh, crisp spring rolls offer a delightful texture contrast while their lighter filling enhances the Asian theme perfectly.
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Szechuan Shrimp: These spicy, tender shrimp bring a burst of flavor to your meal, balancing perfectly with the salad’s refreshing elements.
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Miso Soup: The umami-rich depth of miso soup provides a warm, comforting contrast to the chilled salad, rounding out a light meal.
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Lychee Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing and subtly sweet sorbet cleanses the palate, finishing your meal on a bright note.
Vermicelli Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best vermicelli noodles?
When picking vermicelli noodles, look for thin rice noodles that have a clear color and a smooth texture. I often recommend the Wei Wei brand for its great taste and authenticity. Avoid noodles that are broken or have a yellowish tint, as they might compromise the overall flavor of your salad.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
To store your Vermicelli Noodle Salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve; this helps prevent the noodles from becoming soggy and maintains the salad’s crispness.
Can I freeze Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
Freezing vermicelli salad is not recommended, as the noodles and vegetables can lose their appealing crunch and texture when thawed. If you want to store it longer, consider saving just the vegetables or noodles separately and using them in stir-fries or spring rolls in the future.
What can I do if my salad turns out watery?
If you find your salad too watery, the most probable culprit is the vermicelli noodles. Make sure to drain them thoroughly after soaking. You can also pat them dry with a tea towel to remove any extra moisture. In the future, adding more vegetables like cabbage can help absorb excess liquid while providing a delightful crunch.
Can I customize the ingredients in Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
Absolutely! The beauty of this salad lies in its flexibility. You can swap ingredients based on what you have at home. If you’re looking for protein, consider adding leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal. Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or radishes can bring in extra flavors and crunch, making it your very own creation!
Zesty Vermicelli Noodle Salad for a Refreshing Meal Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a jar, combine light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, grapeseed oil, minced garlic, and Birds Eye chili. Shake well and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Soak vermicelli noodles in warm water for about 2 minutes, then drain well and set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss together the cooked vermicelli noodles, shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, and coriander.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Garnish with fried Asian shallots.