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Saigon Noodle Salad (Bún Sài Gòn) – A Fresh, Flavorful Vietnamese Rice Noodle Bowl

Shruthi
Saigon Noodle Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with authentic Vietnamese flavors.Rice vermicelli noodles provide a soft and satisfying base.Fresh herbs and crisp vegetables create vibrant texture and aroma.Grilled protein adds hearty flavor and nutrition.The tangy nước chấm dressing perfectly balances sweet, salty, sour, and spicy notes.It's a healthy, refreshing meal ideal for warm days or light dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course dinner, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Southeast Asian, Vietnamese
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 8 ounces rice vermicelli noodles
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro
  • ½ cup Thai basil leaves
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups grilled pork, chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu
  • Lime wedges for serving

For the Nước Chấm Dressing

  • ¼ cup fish sauce
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red chili, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup warm water

Instructions
 

  • Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.
  • Prepare the dressing by whisking together the fish sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, chili, and warm water until the sugar dissolves completely.
  • Wash and prepare all the vegetables and fresh herbs.
  • Divide the lettuce among serving bowls.
  • Add the cooled rice noodles over the lettuce.
  • Arrange the cucumber, carrots, bean sprouts, herbs, and grilled protein on top.
  • Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and sliced green onions.
  • Drizzle generously with the nước chấm dressing, garnish with lime wedges, and toss gently before serving.

Notes

  • Fresh herbs are essential for authentic flavor.
  • Rinse noodles thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice.
  • Add dressing immediately before serving.
  • Grilled meats provide the best flavor.
  • Roasted peanuts add delicious crunch.
  • Adjust chili to your preferred spice level.
  • Meal prep by storing ingredients separately.

 

Keyword Bún Sài Gòn, Healthy Noodle Salad, Rice Vermicelli Salad, Saigon Noodle Salad, Vietnamese Noodle Bowl, Vietnamese Salad Recipe