Zesty Lemongrass Vermicelli Salad

Lemongrass Vermicelli Salad is the perfect dish for a summer day! Imagine twirling your fork through soft vermicelli noodles mixed with crispy pan-fried tofu, vibrant fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables. The star of the show is a zesty sauce made from lime and lemongrass that deliciously coats every bite.

Ingredients:

• For the Lemongrass Sauce:

  • 1-2 tablespoons of lemongrass paste or freshly grated lemongrass (white parts only)
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (from about 3-4 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon roasted red chile paste (use any type that adds a bit of heat)

• For the Vermicelli Salad:

  • 1 package of vermicelli or thin rice noodles (about 8 ounces)
  • 2 large carrots, shredded or cut into julienne strips
  • 1 cucumber, cut into julienne strips
  • 1 cup fresh mint
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1 lb cooked tofu, shrimp, or chicken (choose your favorite protein)

Instructions:

1. Sauce: Blend all the sauce ingredients in a food processor or shake them together in a jar until well combined.
2. Noodles: Cook the vermicelli according to the package instructions. Rinse under cold water to cool down and remove any excess starch. Drain well.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • For a pretty presentation: Place a portion of noodles in a bowl, top with tofu, carrots, mint, and other toppings. Drizzle with extra sauce.
   • For meal prep: Mix all the noodles with tofu, peanuts, and carrots (skip the cucumber and herbs to avoid sogginess). Add a bit more sauce if needed and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add fresh cucumbers, herbs, and a splash of extra sauce.

Cooking Tips:

• I like to fry my tofu in a skillet with some oil and soy sauce for extra flavor. You can also try poaching or sautéing shrimp or chicken.
• The sauce can be prepared a few days ahead and kept in the fridge, making this an easy meal to put together during the week.

This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds, blending textures and flavors in a refreshing way. Enjoy your homemade Lemongrass Vermicelli Salad and savor the taste of summer!