Description
A refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or healthy lunches, this noodle salad is packed with crisp veggies, your choice of protein, and a flavor-packed dressing. It comes together quickly, can be prepped in advance, and adapts easily to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re going for Asian-inspired flavors or something Mediterranean, this salad is endlessly flexible and full of texture, crunch, and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- ½ cucumber, julienned
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup cooked protein (tofu, chicken, shrimp, or steak)
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts or sesame seeds (for garnish)
2. For the Dressing
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp fresh grated ginger
- Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha to taste
Instructions
- Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water, drain, and set aside.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Prepare vegetables and protein. Slice everything thin for easy mixing and eating.
- In a large bowl, combine noodles, veggies, herbs, and protein. Pour over dressing and toss well.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with peanuts, sesame seeds, or more herbs. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add snap peas, bean sprouts, or radishes. Dressing can be made 3 days ahead. Store leftovers in the fridge and add fresh herbs or lime before serving again.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–10 minutes
- Category: Salad/Main
- Method: Boil + Toss
- Cuisine: Asian fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg