American Kitchen Classic Vietnamese Bun Cool Noodle Salad Recipe

This vibrant Vietnamese Bun Cool Noodle Salad is a flavor explosion you can whip up in under an hour! Prepare ahead for ultimate ease – chop veggies and make the dressing in advance. Cook the noodles up to two hours prior and let them sit at room temperature. At serving time, simply assemble this refreshing and healthy dish with its incredible array of fresh garnishes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a summer picnic!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 276.8 kcal
Protein 12g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
American Kitchen Classic Vietnamese Bun Cool Noodle Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for American Kitchen Classic Vietnamese Bun Cool Noodle Salad

  • Lettuce
  • Fresh Bean Sprouts
  • Cucumbers
  • Mint Leaf
  • Basil Leaves
  • Roasted Peanuts
  • Fresh Cilantro
  • Nuoc Cham Sauce
  • Rice Vermicelli
  • Vegetables

How to Make American Kitchen Classic Vietnamese Bun Cool Noodle Salad

  1. Cook rice noodles according to package directions. Rinse under cold water and set aside at room temperature (can be done up to 2 hours ahead).
  2. While noodles cook, prepare the vinaigrette: Whisk together fish sauce (2 tablespoons), rice vinegar (3 tablespoons), lime juice (2 tablespoons), brown sugar (1 tablespoon), sesame oil (1 tablespoon), minced garlic (1 clove), and grated ginger (1 teaspoon) in a small bowl. Adjust seasonings to your taste.
  3. Prepare the vegetables: Shred carrots (1 cup), thinly slice red onion (1/2 cup), and thinly slice fresh cilantro (1/2 cup) and mint (1/2 cup).
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles with the vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Arrange noodles on plates or in bowls. Top with shredded carrots, red onion, cilantro, mint, chopped peanuts (1/2 cup), and sliced cucumber (1/2 cup).
  6. Optional: Add grilled shrimp, pork, or tofu for extra protein. Serve immediately and enjoy!
  7. Note: For best flavor, make the dressing at least 30 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

13g

Fat

3g

Carbs

18g