Vietnamese Salad Dressing Recipe

This Vegetarian Vietnamese Salad Dressing is a flavorful and versatile dressing that can be used for various salads, particularly noodle salads. It combines tangy, sweet, and umami flavors, making it a perfect complement to fresh vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons vegan fish sauce (or soy sauce for a milder flavor)
1 tablespoon sugar (coconut sugar or regular)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1-2 bird’s eye chilies (sliced, optional for heat)
1 tablespoon water (to thin the dressing if needed)

Instructions

Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, lime juice, vegan fish sauce (or soy sauce), sugar, minced garlic, and sliced chilies.
Adjust Consistency:
- If the dressing is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors as needed. You can add more sugar for sweetness, more lime juice for tanginess, or more vegan fish sauce for saltiness.
Let It Sit:
- Allow the dressing to sit for at least 15 minutes before using. This helps the flavors meld together.
Serve:
- Drizzle over your favorite salads or use it as a dipping sauce for spring rolls.

Tips

This dressing pairs well with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
You can store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For added depth of flavor, consider adding freshly grated lemongrass or a splash of sesame oil.

What Other Herbs Can I Add to the Salad for Extra Flavor?

You can enhance your salad with a variety of fresh herbs, such as:

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Mint: Provides a refreshing taste that complements the other ingredients.
Basil: Sweet basil can add a fragrant note.
Thai Basil: Offers a slightly spicy and anise-like flavor.
Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor.

Can I Use a Different Type of Vinegar in the Dressing?

Yes, you can substitute rice vinegar with various other types of vinegar. Some good alternatives include:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a mild sweetness and tang.
White Wine Vinegar: A versatile option that works well in dressings.
Balsamic Vinegar: Provides a rich, sweet flavor, though it may change the overall taste profile.
Red Wine Vinegar: Offers a more robust flavor suitable for bolder salads 1 2 4.

How Can I Make the Salad Spicy Without Adding Sriracha?

To add spice without using Sriracha, consider these options:

Fresh Chilies: Slice fresh bird’s eye or jalapeño peppers and mix them into the salad.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle some flakes into the dressing or salad for heat.
Ginger: Finely minced ginger can add warmth and spice.
Wasabi or Horseradish: A small amount can provide a sharp kick.

What Are Some Good Vegetarian Protein Sources to Add to the Salad?

To boost the protein content of your salad, consider adding:

Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber.
Edamame: Provides a crunchy texture and is high in protein.
Tofu or Tempeh: Marinated and grilled or sautéed for added flavor.
Quinoa: A complete protein that complements many salad ingredients.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add both protein and crunch.

Can I Substitute the Rice Noodles with Another Type of Noodle?

Yes, you can substitute rice noodles with several other types of noodles, such as:

Soba Noodles: Made from buckwheat, they have a nutty flavor and are gluten-free.
Udon Noodles: Thick wheat noodles that are chewy and hearty.
Whole Wheat Pasta: A healthier alternative that works well in salads.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can be used.

Enjoy this delicious and zesty Vegetarian Vietnamese Salad Dressing!