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There’s something incredibly refreshing about a bowl of Vermicelli Noodle Salad, especially when the weather warms up or when I’m craving something light yet satisfying. You’ll feel the crunch of the crispy cabbage and the sweet snap of fresh carrots with every bite, all perfectly complemented by a zingy dressing that dances on your taste buds.

I discovered this delightful salad one sunny afternoon, as I rummaged through my pantry, seeking a break from the usual heavy dishes. It turns out that the combination of simple ingredients—like vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and a hint of chili—creates a melody of flavors that keeps my family coming back for more. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

Let’s dive into this easy Vermicelli Noodle Salad recipe that’s as vibrant as it is delicious—you’ll wonder how something so simple can be so utterly satisfying!

Why is Vermicelli Noodle Salad so popular?

Freshness at its core: This salad bursts with fresh veggies, from crispy cabbage to sweet carrots, guaranteeing a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Zingy dressing: A delightful blend of soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and a kick of chili brings a burst of flavor that elevates ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish.

Quick to prepare: Perfect for busy nights, this dish comes together in minutes, making it a convenient option for any cook.

Versatile: Suitable for both casual meals and fancy gatherings, it appeals to everyone and can even be customized with your favorite proteins.

Elevate your mealtime game with this vibrant salad! It’s a taste of freshness that complements any menu.

Vermicelli Noodle Salad Ingredients

• Fresh ingredients for a vibrant meal!

For the Salad

Dried vermicelli noodles – 100g / 4 oz, the beautiful base that absorbs all the flavors nicely.
Shredded cabbage – 2 cups, adds a satisfying crunch and freshness.
Shredded carrot – 1 1/2 cups, lends natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Bean sprouts – 1 1/2 cups, enhancing the crunch factor while contributing nutrition.
Green onions – 2, finely sliced, for a mild yet zesty kick.
Coriander/cilantro leaves – 1/2 cup, a fragrant herb that brightens up your Vermicelli Noodle Salad.

For the Dressing

Light soy sauce – 2 tbsp, adds depth and savory umami flavor.
Rice wine vinegar – 2 tbsp, bringing a refreshing acidity that ties the salad together.
Sugar – 1 1/2 tsp, balancing the saltiness and acidity for a harmonious blend.
Grapeseed oil – 1 1/2 tbsp, a neutral oil that lets the flavors shine through.
Garlic clove – 1, minced, infusing a warm, aromatic essence into the dressing.
Birds eye chili – 1, finely minced, for those who love a spicy kick!

Optional Garnishes

Fried Asian shallots – to garnish, adding an extra crunch and aromatic flavor.
Red chili – finely sliced, a pop of color and heat for those who dare!

How to Make Vermicelli Noodle Salad

Cook the vermicelli noodles: Bring a pot of water to boil, then add the dried vermicelli noodles. Cook them according to package instructions until they are tender, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain them and set aside to cool.
Combine the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, bean sprouts, finely sliced green onions, and coriander/cilantro leaves. Mix them together gently for an even distribution of colors and textures.
Whisk the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, grapeseed oil, minced garlic, and minced birds eye chili until well combined. This dressing brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Mix the noodles and vegetables: Add the cooled vermicelli noodles to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with that delicious dressing.
Serve with garnishes: Transfer the salad into a serving bowl and top with fried Asian shallots and sliced red chili if desired. This adds an extra crunch and a touch of heat that makes for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Vermicelli Noodle Salad

Cook Noodles Perfectly: Always follow the package instructions closely; overcooked vermicelli can become mushy and lose its appealing texture.
Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill for about 15 minutes after tossing—with flavors melding, each bite becomes even more delicious!
Customize Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables; bell peppers, cucumber, or snap peas can elevate your Vermicelli Noodle Salad even more!
Dressing Balance: Taste as you go—adjust the sweetness or acidity in the dressing according to preference to ensure a perfect balance.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh coriander/cilantro for the best flavor; dried herbs lack the vibrant kick that elevates this dish.

Vermicelli Noodle Salad Variations

Feel free to sprinkle personal touches into this salad masterpiece!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular vermicelli with rice vermicelli or gluten-free noodles, so everyone can enjoy this refreshing dish.
Add Protein: Toss in cooked shrimp, rotisserie chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal that satisfies your hunger without losing the flavor.
Crunchy Toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts or sunflower seeds on top for an extra layer of texture that enhances every bite’s deliciousness.
Herb Boost: Fresh mint or basil leaves can be layered in for aromatic freshness that takes the flavor profile to new heights.
Zesty Kick: For additional heat, include sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha in the dressing to cater to your spice-loving friends.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced mango or ripe avocado to add a touch of sweetness and creaminess, creating a delightful contrast to the crunchiness.
Asian Slaw Style: Add thinly sliced bell peppers and snap peas for a vibrant, colorful slaw that looks as good as it tastes and adds even more nutrients.
Vegan: Make sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap sugar with agave syrup to keep it plant-based and equally delightful!

What to Serve with Vermicelli Noodle Salad?

Enhancing your dining experience is easy when you pair this refreshing salad with delightful accompaniments that elevate the flavors.

Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunch from crispy spring rolls complements the salad’s freshness and adds a delightful texture contrast.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, seasoned chicken skewers bring a heartwarming savory element that balances the lightness of the salad beautifully.
Savory Tofu Stir-Fry: A flavorful tofu stir-fry marries well with the vibrant salad, catering to both taste and texture.
Chilled Coconut Soup: This refreshing, creamy soup offers a cool contrast to the vermicelli, making it a well-rounded meal choice.
Chili Lime Shrimp: The zesty kick from chili lime shrimp adds another layer of flavor, complementing the salad’s dressing perfectly.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this Thai dessert creates a wonderful harmony between savory and sweet flavors to round out your meal.

Embrace your creativity and play with these pairings—they’ll make your dining experience truly special!

How to Store and Freeze Vermicelli Noodle Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Vermicelli Noodle Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the veggies fresh and the noodles from getting soggy.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the delicate vermicelli noodles and fresh vegetables may lose their texture once thawed.

Reheating: If you’d like to serve it warm, briefly stir-fry the salad over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water or extra dressing to keep it moist.

Preparation Tip: To maintain the crunch, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Vermicelli Noodle Salad components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (cabbage, carrot, bean sprouts, green onions, and coriander) up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy. The dressing can also be prepared ahead—mix the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar, oil, garlic, and chili, and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions, toss everything together, and enjoy a vibrant meal that is just as delicious as if you made it that day!

Vermicelli Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of vermicelli noodles should I use?
Absolutely! Look for thin, dried rice vermicelli noodles, which are typically found in the Asian aisle of your grocery store. They cook quickly and create that perfect, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crunchy vegetables in this salad.

How should I store leftover Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures the vegetables remain crisp, and the noodles don’t get mushy. Just remember to toss the salad again before serving to re-distribute the dressing!

Can I freeze Vermicelli Noodle Salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad. The delicate nature of the vermicelli noodles and the fresh vegetables can lose their appealing texture and crunch when thawed. If you do have to freeze it, you could store the dressing separately and only add it when ready to eat!

What if my vermicelli noodles are overcooked?
I recommend watching your noodles closely while cooking—overcooked vermicelli can turn mushy. If they do overcook, try to salvage them by tossing them in a cool bowl of water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process. Drain again and gently use them in your salad!

Is this salad suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Vermicelli Noodle Salad is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by checking the soy sauce for any animal products. If you’re making it for someone with an allergy, consider omitting or substituting the soy sauce with a gluten-free option or tamari. Always double-check labels to ensure safety!

How can I customize the salad for my taste?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or even grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Just remember to keep the overall balance in flavors and textures—additions should complement the vibrant and fresh profile of the Vermicelli Noodle Salad.