Cold rice noodle salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish perfect for hot summer days or a quick, healthy meal. Inspired by Vietnamese bún salads, this recipe combines chewy rice noodles, crisp vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Whether you need a make-ahead lunch, a side dish for BBQs, or a gluten-free vegan option, this salad is versatile and easy to customize.

In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ The best rice noodles to use
✅ How to prevent sticky noodles
✅ A tangy homemade dressing
✅ Creative add-ins & protein options
✅ Meal prep & storage tips

Let’s make the ultimate cold rice noodle salad!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Large bowl (for soaking noodles)
Colander (to drain noodles)
Sharp knife & cutting board (for veggies)
Mixing bowls (for dressing & assembling)
Measuring spoons & cups
Tongs or chopsticks (for tossing)

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Noodles & Base:

8 oz (225g) thin rice noodles (vermicelli-style)
1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
1 cup julienned carrots
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
½ cup fresh mint & cilantro, chopped
¼ cup crushed peanuts (for crunch)

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegan)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 red chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)

How to Make Cold Rice Noodle Salad (Step-by-Step) ?

Step 1: Prep the Rice Noodles

Boil water, then turn off heat.
Soak noodles for 4-5 mins until tender (check package instructions).
Drain & rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with 1 tsp oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Chop Vegetables & Herbs

Thinly slice cucumber, bell pepper, carrots.
Shred cabbage finely.
Chop mint, cilantro, and chili.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and chili.
Adjust sweetness/saltiness to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine noodles, veggies, and herbs.
Drizzle dressing & toss gently.
Top with crushed peanuts.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for 20 mins to enhance flavors.
Serve cold with extra herbs & lime wedges.

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken.
Vegan Option: Swap fish sauce for soy sauce or tamari.
Fruit Twist: Add mango or pineapple for sweetness.
Spicy Version: Increase chili or add sriracha.
Low-Carb: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead.

Cooking Notes

Noodle Texture: Don’t overcook—rice noodles turn mushy fast.
Dressing Tip: Let it sit 10 mins before mixing for deeper flavor.
Make Ahead: Prep veggies & dressing 1 day ahead, but add noodles fresh.
Storing Leftovers: Keeps 2 days in the fridge (noodles may soften).

Serving Suggestions

Pair with: Grilled meats, spring rolls, or as a standalone meal.
Garnish with: Extra herbs, sesame seeds, or fried shallots.
Great for: Picnics, potlucks, or meal prep lunches.

Helpful Tips

✔ Rinse noodles well to remove excess starch.
✔ Cut veggies uniformly for even bites.
✔ Toast peanuts for extra crunch.
✔ Double dressing if you like it saucy.
✔ Use room-temp ingredients for best flavor.

Tips for the Best Cold Rice Noodle Salad

Fresh herbs make a difference don’t skip them!
Balance flavors: Sweet, salty, sour, and spicy.
Serve immediately if you prefer firmer noodles.

Prep/Cook/Total Time

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins (+ chilling)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 600mg (adjust with low-sodium sauce)

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FAQs

Q: Can I use regular pasta instead?
A: Rice noodles work best, but soba noodles are a good substitute.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: 1-2 days (noodles soften over time).

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, if using gluten-free fish sauce.

Conclusion

This cold rice noodle salad is quick, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors! Perfect for meal prep, summer cookouts, or a light dinner. Customize with your favorite veggies & proteins, and enjoy this no-cook, refreshing dish anytime.

Try it today and let us know your twist! 🌿🍜