Creating a flavorful and refreshing dish doesn’t have to involve hours in the kitchen. Vietnamese cuisine offers a delightful mix of flavors that can easily be incorporated into your own cooking routine. This Vietnamese Rice Noodle Salad with Tofu is a perfect example of a dish that is both light and satisfying. The combination of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, chewy rice noodles, and savory tofu creates a harmony of tastes and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a side dish at dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
**Vietnamese Rice Noodle Salad With Tofu**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, cubed
– 2 carrots, julienned
– 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Rice Noodles:**
– Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
– Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
– Set aside.
2. **Crispy Tofu:**
– Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
– Add the cubed tofu and dry fry until golden and crispy on all sides.
– Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. **Assemble the Salad:**
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice noodles, crispy tofu, julienned carrots, sliced cucumber, red bell pepper, bean sprouts, mint leaves, and cilantro.
4. **Make the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
5. **Toss and Serve:**
– Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
– Garnish with chopped peanuts.
– Serve the Vietnamese Rice Noodle Salad with Tofu immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
This Vietnamese Rice Noodle Salad with Tofu is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Feel free to add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu as a protein option. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a perfect dish for entertaining or a light meal anytime. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of Vietnamese cuisine with this easy-to-make recipe!
