Vibrant Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad: A Delightful Blend of Freshness and Flavor

This Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad, also known as “Bún,” is a delicious, refreshing dish that combines tender vermicelli noodles with crisp vegetables, aromatic herbs, and savory proteins. The dish is brought together with a delectable nuoc cham dipping sauce, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year.

###Ingredients###

###For the Salad###- 200 grams rice vermicelli noodles- 200 grams grilled shrimp, chicken, beef, or tofu- 1 cucumber, julienned- 2 medium carrots, julienned- 1 cup bean sprouts- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts- 1/2 cup fried shallots

###For the Nuoc Cham sauce###- 1/4 cup fish sauce- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice- 2 tablespoons sugar- 1/4 cup water- 1 garlic clove, minced- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional)

###Instructions###

###1. Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles:###

1. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions, usually by soaking them in hot water for about 4-6 minutes until soft.
2. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Set aside.

###2. Prepare the Nuoc Cham Sauce:###

1. In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, fresh lime juice, sugar, and water.
2. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped chili if using.
4. Mix well and set aside.

###3. Assemble the Salad:###

1. In a large bowl or on individual serving plates, place a generous serving of the cooked and cooled vermicelli noodles.
2. Arrange the grilled shrimp, chicken, beef, or tofu on top.
3. Add the julienned cucumber and carrots, bean sprouts, fresh mint, cilantro, and Thai basil leaves.
4. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fried shallots for extra crunch.

###4. Serve:###

1. Serve the salad with a side of nuoc cham sauce for drizzling over the top or dipping.
2. Toss everything together just before eating to ensure all the flavors are well combined.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad!