Vietnamese cold noodle salad, also known as "bun cha gio" in Vietnam, is a popular dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This refreshing and nutritious salad is a combination of cold rice noodles, fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It's a dish that can be easily customized to fit your taste preferences, making it a go-to meal for many Vietnamese households. In this article, we will take a closer look at this delicious recipe and how you can make it at home.
[RECIPE] Low Calorie & Low Carb Asian Cold Noodle...
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Coconut Sugar, Radish, Lime Juice, Rice
If you’re looking for a refreshing and healthy meal, this low calorie and low carb Asian cold noodle salad is the perfect choice. Made with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and a delicious sesame dressing, this salad is bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Start by cooking your choice of low carb noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables. Thinly slice cucumbers, carrots, and red bell peppers and set them aside.
In a small bowl, mix together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey to create a tasty dressing. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to cool them down. Toss the noodles with the dressing and add in the sliced vegetables.
For added protein, top the salad with grilled chicken breast or tofu. This refreshing and healthy meal is perfect for a hot summer day and will leave you feeling satisfied without the guilt.
2of 14
Cold Noodle Salad With Nut Dressing
Main Ingredients: Peanuts, Walnuts, Pecans, Orange, Maple Syrup, Water
This cold noodle salad features a unique and flavorful nut dressing that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory and is packed with protein and healthy fats.
Cook your choice of whole wheat noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the nut dressing by blending together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic in a food processor or blender.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, and edamame beans. Pour the nut dressing over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions for an added crunch and flavor.
This cold noodle salad is a great option for a protein-packed lunch or dinner and is sure to become a favorite in your household.
3of 14
Asian Cold Noodle Salad
Main Ingredients: Chow Mein Noodles, Cucumber, Carrots, Fresh Cilantro
This Asian-inspired cold noodle salad is loaded with crunchy vegetables, flavorful dressing, and protein-rich chicken. It’s a perfect meal for a hot summer day or a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Cook your choice of rice noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and garlic in a small bowl.
In a separate large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with shredded chicken, thinly sliced cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.
This Asian cold noodle salad is a great option for a quick and easy meal that is also packed with nutrients and flavor.
4of 14
Cold Noodle Salad
Main Ingredients: Ramen, Lettuce, Vegetables, Sliced Ham, Green Onions
This simple and versatile cold noodle salad is a great option for those who want a customizable and easy meal. You can use any noodles of your choice and mix and match your favorite vegetables and protein to create a meal that is perfect for your taste buds.
Cook your choice of noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables and protein. Some great options to include in your salad are bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, sliced vegetables, and protein. For the dressing, you can use a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs or get creative with your own homemade dressing. Toss everything together until well combined and enjoy!
5of 14
Vietnamese Cold Noodles Salad With Grilled Lemongrass...
Main Ingredients: Carrot, Cucumber, Lettuce, Coriander Leaves, Mint
This Vietnamese-inspired cold noodle salad is a delicious and unique twist on the traditional chicken salad. The addition of lemongrass in the grilled chicken adds a burst of flavor and makes this salad stand out.
Marinate your chicken breasts in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and honey for at least 30 minutes before grilling. While the chicken is marinating, cook your choice of rice noodles according to the package instructions.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and bean sprouts. Grill the marinated chicken until cooked through and slice into strips. Add the chicken to the salad and top with a homemade peanut sauce for a delicious and flavorful meal.
This Vietnamese cold noodle salad is a great option for those who are looking for a unique and flavorful meal that is also packed with nutrients.
6of 14
Cold Noodle Salad with Cabbage
Main Ingredients: Savoy Cabbage, Radish, Shredded Carrots, Scallions
This cold noodle salad is a perfect option for those who want a hearty and flavorful meal that is also packed with nutrients and fiber. Cabbage is a great addition to any salad as it is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.
Cook your choice of whole wheat noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together olive oil, honey, rice vinegar, and soy sauce.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with shredded cabbage, grilled chicken, thinly sliced red bell peppers, and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with chopped peanuts for an added crunch and flavor.
This cold noodle salad with cabbage is a great option for a filling and nutritious meal that is also packed with flavor.
7of 14
Summery Salmon Cold Noodle Salad
Main Ingredients: Mung Bean Threads, Oil, Salt, Freshly Ground Pepper
This summery salmon cold noodle salad is a perfect option for those who want a light and refreshing meal that is also packed with protein and healthy fats. The combination of fresh vegetables and grilled salmon makes this salad a perfect choice for a hot summer day.
Cook your choice of rice noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the salmon by marinating it in a mixture of lime juice, ginger, honey, and soy sauce. Grill the salmon until cooked through and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and sliced avocado. Top the salad with the grilled salmon and garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds. Drizzle with a homemade sesame dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
8of 14
Summer Cold Noodle Salad- Somen Salad
Main Ingredients: Somen, Iceberg, Ham, Eggs, Kamaboko, Green Onion, Corn
This summer cold noodle salad, also known as somen salad, is a light and refreshing meal that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with thin Japanese noodles, this salad is a great option for those who want a change from traditional pasta salads.
Cook your choice of somen noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and sliced radishes. Add in some grilled shrimp or tofu for added protein. Toss everything together with the dressing and garnish with toasted sesame seeds for a flavorful and healthy meal.
9of 14
Japanese Cold Noodle Salad (Hiyashi Chuka)
Main Ingredients: Chuka Soba Noodles, Eggs, Salt, Sugar, Vegetable Oil
This Japanese cold noodle salad, also known as hiyashi chuka, is a popular summer dish in Japan. Made with ramen noodles and a variety of fresh vegetables and protein, this salad is perfect for those who want a light and flavorful meal.
Cook your choice of ramen noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, thinly sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, sliced tomatoes, and grilled chicken. Toss everything together with the dressing and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a delicious and authentic Japanese dish.
10of 14
Cold Noodle Salad With Carrot-ginger Dressing
Main Ingredients: Medium Carrots, White Onion, Garlic Cloves, Fresh
This cold noodle salad features a tasty and unique carrot-ginger dressing that will have your taste buds singing. Made with udon noodles and a variety of fresh vegetables, this salad is perfect for those who want a flavorful and healthy meal.
Cook your choice of udon noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by blending together carrots, ginger, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey in a food processor or blender.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, thinly sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and edamame beans. Top the salad with the carrot-ginger dressing and toss to combine. Garnish with chopped cilantro and toasted cashews for an added crunch and flavor.
11of 14
Cold Noodle Salad with Creamy Peanut Sauce
Main Ingredients: Beef, Kosher Salt, Chinese Wheat Noodles, Creamy Peanut
This cold noodle salad is a perfect option for peanut butter lovers. The creamy peanut sauce adds a delicious and rich flavor to the noodles and vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.
Cook your choice of soba noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the peanut sauce by mixing together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, and sliced red bell pepper. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with chopped peanuts and green onions for an added crunch and flavor.
This cold noodle salad with creamy peanut sauce is a great option for those who want a unique and flavorful meal that is also packed with nutrients.
12of 14
Mediterranean-Style Cold Noodle Salad with Tahini...
Main Ingredients: Glass Noodles, Mung Bean Noodles, Udon, Angel Hair
This Mediterranean-inspired cold noodle salad is a delicious and healthy meal option that is packed with flavorful ingredients and nutrients. The addition of tahini in the dressing adds a nutty and rich flavor to the salad.
Cook your choice of whole wheat noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, diced tomatoes, canned chickpeas, sliced cucumber, and sliced red onion. Top the salad with the tahini dressing and toss to combine. Garnish with chopped herbs and crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
13of 14
Cold Noodle Salad With Sesame, Garlic And Herbs
Main Ingredients: Rice Noodles, Fish Sauce, Fresh Lime Juice, Honey
This cold noodle salad is a simple and flavorful meal that is perfect for those who want a quick and easy option. Made with sesame oil, garlic, and a variety of fresh herbs, this salad is bursting with flavor and nutrients.
Cook your choice of rice noodles according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles, sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and a variety of fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, and mint. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.
14of 14
Cold Spaghetti Salad
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, Black Olives
This cold noodle salad is a perfect option for those who want a simple and comforting meal. Made with spaghetti and a variety of fresh vegetables, this salad is a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Cook your choice of spaghetti according to the package instructions. While the noodles are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs of your choice.
Ingredients for Vietnamese Cold Noodle Salad
For the Noodle Salad:
Rice noodles: Also known as vermicelli, these thin noodles are the base of the salad.
Protein: You can use grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp as your protein of choice.
Vegetables: Shredded lettuce, cucumber, and bean sprouts are commonly used in this salad, but you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, and Thai basil add a burst of flavor to the dish.
Roasted peanuts: These add a crunchy texture to the salad.
For the Dressing:
Fish sauce: This is the base of the dressing and adds a savory umami flavor.
Lime juice: Adds a tangy and refreshing element to the dressing.
Sugar: Balances out the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
Garlic and chili: These add a spicy kick to the dressing.
To make the dressing, simply combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Adjust the proportions to your taste, adding more or less of each ingredient as desired.
Making Vietnamese Cold Noodle Salad
To make this salad, start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them with cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Then, prepare the protein of your choice, whether it's grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp. You can also use leftover cooked meat to save time.
Next, prep the vegetables and herbs by washing and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, add the cooked noodles, protein, vegetables, and herbs. Toss everything together until well combined.
Finally, pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. Top with roasted peanuts for an extra crunch. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish to complement other Vietnamese dishes.
Customizing Your Vietnamese Cold Noodle Salad
One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables, protein, or even changing up the dressing. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the protein or use tofu instead. For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free noodles and check the ingredients in your dressing.
With its refreshing flavors and customizable nature, Vietnamese cold noodle salad is a must-try dish. Whether you're looking for a light and healthy meal or a new way to enjoy your favorite Vietnamese ingredients, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings.