No Cook Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful no-cook noodle salad with a tangy dressing, packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
For the noodles
- 3.5 oz dry vermicelli noodles (or mung bean threads) Use 2 bundles.
- 1 small carrot Thinly sliced or grated.
- 1 small red bell pepper Thinly sliced.
- 1 small green bell pepper Thinly sliced.
- 1 small red onion Thinly sliced.
- 1 small cucumber Thinly sliced.
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped mint
- 2 tbsp chopped basil
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup sliced smoked extra firm tofu Optional protein.
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds Or other chopped nuts/seeds of choice.
- 1/4 cup crispy shallots
- 1/2 cup pickled radish and carrot Optional but recommended.
For the dressing
- 2.5-3 tbsp lemon juice From 1/2 large lemon.
- 2-3 tbsp soy sauce Adjust to taste.
- 1 tbsp sugar Feel free to adjust for sweetness.
- 2 tbsp maple syrup Or other liquid sweetener, adjust to taste.
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- to taste chopped chili Optional for spice.
Instructions
Noodles
- Place the noodles in a large heatproof bowl.
- Pour in boiling hot water to completely submerge the noodles.
- Leave the noodles to soak for 8-10 minutes or until cooked and chewy to your liking.
- Drain the noodles and run them under cold water. Optionally, add some ice cubes to cool them quickly.
- Ensure you strain the noodles well to remove excess water, as too much water could dilute the salad dressing.
Dressing
- While the noodles are soaking, mix all dressing ingredients together until well combined.
- Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste.
- If you prefer, prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge.
Assembling the Noodle Salad
- In a large bowl, add the drained noodles.
- Add the mixed vegetables, protein (if using), nuts or seeds, and herbs.
- Pour in some of the dressing and mix everything to coat evenly.
Notes
This salad is best enjoyed cold! It's a good idea to prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for 1-2 hours.