Fresh Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad You’ll Love
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by enricorecipez
Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I found myself yearning for a dish that captured the fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, and then it hit me: a vibrant Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad! The first bite transports me to a sun-drenched street market, where the aroma of herbs mingles with the sizzle of stir-fries. This dish brings together delicate vermicelli noodles with crisp choy sum, a hint of mint, and the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts.
Whether you re looking to spice up your weekday meals or impress friends at your next gathering, this salad is the answer! It s quick, colorful, and filled with fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. Plus, the dressing simple yet zesty ties everything together beautifully. Trust me when I say that this delightful concoction will leave you craving more. Join me in the kitchen as we whip up this delightful, healthy masterpiece in no time!
Why is this Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad special?
Vibrant flavors: Each ingredient sings with freshness, from the crisp choy sum to the fragrant mint leaves.
Quick and easy: Minimal cooking is required perfect for busy schedules or lazy days.
Nutty crunch: The roasted peanuts add a satisfying texture that complements the noodles beautifully.
Health-conscious: Packed with veggies and lean ingredients, this salad is a guilt-free delight.
Versatile dish: Great as a side or main course, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering!
Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Dried vermicelli noodles These delicate noodles are essential for creating a light and satisfying base for your Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad.
- Baby choy sum This green adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor; be sure to separate the leaves and stems for the best texture.
- Vegetable oil A small amount is perfect for cooking the eggs without sticking in the wok.
- Eggs Lightly beaten, this adds protein and richness to the salad.
- Large carrot Provides a lovely crunch; using a julienne peeler creates beautiful long strips!
- Fresh mint leaves Brightens the dish with a refreshing aroma and flavor.
- Fresh coriander sprigs Add both leaves and finely chopped stems for an aromatic touch that elevates the salad.
- Roasted salted peanuts The nutty crunch offers a delightful contrast to the softness of the noodles and veggies.
For the Dressing
- Lemon juice A splash brings a tangy zest that enhances all the flavors in the salad.
- Fish sauce Adds depth of flavor and umami; it s a classic ingredient for authentic Vietnamese dishes.
- Sambal oelek This chili paste gives just the right kick, making the dressing unique and exciting.
- Caster sugar Balances the savory and tangy components, creating a harmonious dressing.
How to Make Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad
Prepare noodles: Place the dried vermicelli noodles in a heatproof bowl and cover them with boiling water. Let them sit for 5 minutes, adding the choy sum stems during the last 2 minutes until they are tender.
Drain noodles: Using a fork, gently separate the noodles after 5 minutes. Drain them well and refresh under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Cook eggs: Heat a wok over high heat and add the vegetable oil, swirling to coat. Pour in the beaten eggs, swirling the wok so that the egg covers the base evenly. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until set, then slide it onto a board.
Make dressing: In a screw-top jar, combine the lemon juice, fish sauce, sambal oelek, sugar, and 3 teaspoons of water. Secure the lid and shake until the sugar has dissolved.
Assemble salad: Roll up the omelette and thinly slice it. Using a julienne peeler, cut the carrot into long, thin strips. In a large serving bowl, combine the noodles, choy sum leaves, carrot, mint, and coriander. Gently toss everything together to combine.
Serve: Top the salad with the sliced omelette, drizzle with the prepared dressing, and sprinkle with roasted salted peanuts for extra crunch. Serve and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with extra mint leaves for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad
Feel free to get creative and customize this vibrant salad to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Swap out the vermicelli noodles for rice noodles to keep the texture while catering to gluten sensitivities.
- Vegetarian: Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar for that umami punch.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or prawns for a satisfying protein boost, transforming the salad into a filling main dish. It s amazing how well the flavors meld!
- Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, increase sambal oelek or add sliced fresh chili to the dressing. It ll make your taste buds dance!
- Crunchy Delight: Toss in some shredded cabbage or sliced bell peppers for additional crunch and color, enhancing the dish’s overall texture.
- Herbal Twist: Experiment with different herbs like Thai basil or cilantro for a unique flavor profile, adding layers of taste to each bite.
- Citrusy Brightness: Add a splash of lime juice alongside the lemon juice in the dressing for a citrusy zing that brightens the entire meal.
- Nutty Variation: Try using chopped roasted cashews or walnuts instead of peanuts for a twist that adds a different nutty flavor and texture.
These variations can elevate your Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad experience, making it your own delightful dish every time!
How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for the best texture.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the delicate ingredients like choy sum and mint do not thaw well.
Reheating: If you have warm components left over (e.g., cooked eggs), gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking and drying out.
Serving Suggestions: For the freshest experience, prepare just enough for your meal to enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad at their best!
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the vermicelli noodles and choy sum stems up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The dressing can also be made ahead; just combine all ingredients in a jar and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the salad, assemble all components noodles, choy sum leaves, carrot, mint, and coriander without the omelette and peanuts, storing them in an airtight container. When you re ready to serve, simply add the sliced omelette, drizzle with dressing, sprinkle with peanuts, and enjoy a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal in no time!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad?
Imagine sitting down to a lovely meal filled with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, where every bite is a burst of happiness.
Grilled Shrimp: The subtle sweetness of grilled shrimp complements the salad beautifully while adding a satisfying protein boost.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights filled with fresh veggies and savory meat are the perfect appetizer, setting the stage for your refreshing salad.
Spicy Tofu Skewers: Marinated and grilled to perfection, they add a spicy kick that pairs well with the cool, crunchy elements of the noodle salad.
Zesty Limeade: A refreshing drink that balances the salad’s flavors with its tangy sweetness, making for a perfectly harmonious meal experience.
Peanut Satay Sauce: Drizzle a bit of this rich, nutty sauce on the salad for an extra layer of flavor that complements the roasted peanuts.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat rounds out your meal with a delightful contrast to the savory salad.
Sesame Roasted Broccoli: Its nuttiness pairs wonderfully, adding an earthy flavor and crunch that complements the salad’s texture.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: For a delightful finish, this rich beverage invigorates and balances the meal with its caffeine kick and sweetened creaminess.
Tips for the Best Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad
Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Avoid overcooking the vermicelli noodles; they should be tender yet still have a slight bite. Check them at 5 minutes, adjusting as needed.
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest choy sum, mint, and coriander you can find. Freshness makes all the difference in this Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad!
Egg Techniques: Swirling the wok while cooking the eggs ensures an even thickness. A well-cooked omelette adds a lovely texture to the salad.
Dressing Secrets: Shake the dressing well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. You ll achieve a perfect balance of flavors when everything is fully mixed.
Customization: Feel free to add your favorite proteins, like shredded chicken or tofu, to make this salad a heartier meal.
Vietnamese Choy Sum and Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best choy sum?
Absolutely! When selecting choy sum, look for vibrant green leaves and firm, crisp stems. Avoid any that show dark spots or wilted leaves, as these indicate age or spoilage. Fresh choy sum should be firm to the touch, and the leaves should look lively and fresh.
How long can I store leftover salad?
You can store any leftover Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the dressing on the side until you’re ready to enjoy, as this helps maintain the crunchiness of the veggies and noodles.
Can I freeze leftover salad?
It’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the delicate ingredients like choy sum and mint do not freeze well and may become mushy when thawed. Instead, make just enough for your meal to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors fresh!
What if my noodles are overcooked?
If your vermicelli noodles end up overcooked, don t worry! While they might lose some of their desired texture, you can try to firm them up by rinsing them in cold water immediately after draining. If they become mushy, you can still mix them into stir-fries or soups, where the texture won t be as noticeable.
Is this salad suitable for everyone?
Very! This Vietnamese choy sum and noodle salad is naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free vermicelli noodles. However, be cautious of allergies related to peanuts and fish sauce. For a nut-free version, you can simply omit the peanuts or substitute them with toasted sunflower seeds for similar crunchiness.