This fresh salad is packed with colorful veggies and crispy rice noodles, all wrapped up like your favorite spring rolls. The spicy ginger dressing gives it a tasty kick!
Making this salad is easy and fun! I love to add extra veggies I have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to feel light and happy after a meal—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Vermicelli Noodles: These noodles add a delightful texture. If you can’t find them, try rice noodles, glass noodles, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
Red Cabbage: While red cabbage gives a lovely color, green cabbage is a solid substitute. You can also use mixed salad greens for a different twist.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and mint are key for flavor. If you’re not a fan, substitute parsley or basil for a lighter profile.
Peanuts: They add crunch, but sunflower seeds or sliced almonds work too for a nut-free version. Just be cautious if allergies are a concern.
Honey: If you’d like a vegan option, maple syrup is a perfect substitute. It will still keep the dressing nice and sweet!
How Do You Cook Rice Vermicelli Noodles Perfectly?
Cooking rice vermicelli noodles might seem tricky, but it’s simple! The key is to avoid overcooking them.
- Start by boiling a pot of water, then remove it from heat.
- Add the rice vermicelli noodles to the hot water, making sure they’re fully submerged.
- Let them soak for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re tender but firm.
- Drain and rinse under cold water immediately to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Make sure to drain well before adding to the salad!
Healthy Spring Roll Salad With Spicy Ginger Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 oz (about 100g) rice vermicelli noodles
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
For the Spicy Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp chili flakes or Sriracha (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 5 minutes cooking the noodles, and the rest of the time is spent chopping veggies and whisking up the dressing. It’s quick and easy, plus you can enjoy it right away or let it chill for a bit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice Vermicelli Noodles:
Start by cooking the rice vermicelli noodles. Follow the package instructions, typically soaking them in hot water for about 5-7 minutes until they become tender. Once done, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrot, thinly sliced red bell pepper, julienned cucumber, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves. Gently toss everything together to mix the flavors.
3. Whisk Up the Spicy Ginger Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, fresh lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and chili flakes (or Sriracha). Mix until everything is well combined and the dressing is smooth.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the spicy ginger dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly so that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
5. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and sesame seeds over the top of the salad. Give it a gentle mix to incorporate those lovely crunchy toppings.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
For the freshest taste, serve the salad immediately. If you want the flavors to meld together beautifully, let it chill in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. This salad is perfect as a light meal or as a refreshing side dish. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Healthy Spring Roll Salad With Spicy Ginger Dressing
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Salad?
Absolutely! While rice vermicelli is traditional, you can substitute it with glass noodles, soba noodles, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. Just ensure you cook them according to their specific instructions.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can definitely prep the salad in advance! Chop all the veggies and make the dressing the day before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Just toss them together right before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Like Cilantro or Mint?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro or mint, you can replace them with fresh parsley or basil, which will still give the salad a vibrant flavor. Feel free to mix in whatever herbs you prefer!
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days. Note that the noodles may absorb some dressing, so you can add a drizzle of extra dressing before serving to refresh it.
