As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, our cravings shift towards light, refreshing, and easy-to-make dishes that quench our thirst and satisfy our taste buds. And what better way to beat the heat than with a delicious rice noodle salad? These versatile and flavorful salads are perfect for hot summer days, as they’re quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to suit your personal taste.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, sharing 20 refreshing rice noodle salad recipes that will make your mouth water. From classic Thai peanut to vibrant rainbow vegetable, and from spicy Korean-Style to sweet balsamic glazed, each recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that will leave you craving for more. So, grab a glass of ice-cold water, sit back, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate summer salad experience!
Thai Peanut Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the nutty flavor of rice noodles, all wrapped up in a vibrant and flavorful package. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
– 1/2 cup Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, Thai peanut sauce, cilantro, and red bell pepper.
3. Add cooked rice noodles to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vietnamese Cold Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled pork, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing with cold rice noodles. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold rice noodles
– 1/2 cup diced grilled pork (such as cha siu)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cucumber, carrots, bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, grilled pork, mixed vegetables, cilantro, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, and ginger.
3. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Spicy Sesame Rice Noodle Salad
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of sesame sauce with the spiciness of Korean chili flakes, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice noodles, white rice, and chopped green onions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and Gochujang until well combined.
4. Pour the sesame sauce over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mango Lime Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, combining the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of lime and the creaminess of rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced mango, lime juice, honey, and salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked rice noodles to the mango mixture and toss to combine.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and toasted coconut flakes (if using).
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian-Inspired Rice Noodle Salad with Shrimp
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Asia with succulent shrimp and chewy rice noodles, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, cooled shrimp, cilantro, and red bell pepper.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Rice Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of rice noodles with crispy tofu, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss tofu cubes with olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, crispy tofu, cilantro, scallions, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle with rice vinegar and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rainbow Vegetable Rice Noodle Salad
A vibrant and healthy salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This colorful dish is packed with nutritious vegetables, fiber-rich noodles, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed rainbow vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed rainbow vegetables and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked rice noodles and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the zesty taste of lemongrass with the savory flavor of chicken, served over a bed of fluffy rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cups cooked rice noodles
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook the chicken breast until cooked through, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, and lime juice.
3. Add the lemongrass stalks to the marinade mixture and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine the mixed greens, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
6. Add the chicken pieces and lemongrass marinade to the salad, tossing to combine.
7. Serve over cooked rice noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Ginger Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the warmth of ginger with the crunch of rice noodles, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With its zesty dressing and abundance of fresh vegetables, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked chicken breast, and grated ginger.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with scallions, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber and Mint Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. The combination of crunchy cucumber, cooling mint, and nutty rice noodles creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber slices, and mint leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked rice noodles to the salad and toss gently to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Korean-Style Rice Noodle Salad with Gochujang
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the chewiness of rice noodles, the crunch of vegetables, and the spiciness of gochujang. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, carrots, and sesame seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut and the chewiness of rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked white rice, pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, coconut cream, and lime juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Add the cooked rice noodles to the salad and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Chili Rice Noodle Salad with Edamame
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the warmth of garlic chili flakes with the creaminess of edamame, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy rice noodles. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp garlic chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked edamame, minced garlic, and garlic chili flakes.
3. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and olive oil to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Avocado Lime Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this Avocado Lime Rice Noodle Salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the comfort of cooked rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add the diced avocado and toss gently to combine.
4. Add the cooked rice noodles and toss until well coated with the lime-avocado dressing.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Teriyaki Beef Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines sweet teriyaki beef with savory rice noodles and a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice noodles
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook beef strips in teriyaki sauce until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red bell peppers.
4. Add cooked beef on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Carrot and Cabbage Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of carrots and cabbage with the softness of rice noodles, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, sliced cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Toss until well combined.
3. Add the cooked rice noodles to the bowl and toss to combine with the carrot-cabbage mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sweet Chili Rice Noodle Salad with Peanuts
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines sweet chili rice noodles with crunchy peanuts and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sweet chili rice noodles
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sweet chili rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, roasted peanuts, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and lime juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Rice Noodle Salad
This salad combines the creaminess of lime-infused rice with the spiciness of jalapeños, adding a satisfying crunch from toasted noodles. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Stir in lime juice and olive oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
4. Toast the rice noodles by baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
5. Toss the toasted noodles with the rice mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the chewiness of rice noodles and crunch of vegetables. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Pour the glaze mixture over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked rice noodles and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Noodle Salad with Feta
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the crunch of rice noodles and the tanginess of feta cheese. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 8 oz rice noodles, cooked and cooled
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, noodles, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing rice noodles salad recipes! From spicy and savory to cool and creamy, there’s something for everyone. Try the Thai Peanut Rice Noodle Salad, packed with peanuts and lime juice, or the Vietnamese Cold Rice Noodle Salad, featuring a zesty fish sauce dressing. Other standouts include the Herbed Rice Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu, the Rainbow Vegetable Rice Noodle Salad, and the Lemongrass Chicken Rice Noodle Salad. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect dish to enjoy on a warm summer day.