Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Noodle Bowl:
- 8 ounces vermicelli rice noodles
- 1 large cucumber, julienned
- 2 large carrots, julienned
- 1 cup fresh bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup unsalted peanuts, crushed (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Nuoc Cham Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1-2 Thai bird's eye chilies, minced (adjust to your spice preference)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat.
- Allow the shrimp to marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the Vermicelli Noodles:
- Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
- Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Set aside.
3. Make the Nuoc Cham Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, fresh lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and minced Thai bird's eye chilies.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors, adding more lime juice, sugar, or chilies if desired.
4. Grill the Shrimp:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp from the grill.
5. Assemble the Vermicelli Noodle Bowl:
- Divide the cooked vermicelli noodles among serving bowls.
- Top the noodles with julienned cucumber, julienned carrots, fresh bean sprouts, cilantro leaves, and mint leaves.
- Add the grilled shrimp on top.
6. Serve:
- Drizzle the nuoc cham dressing over the Vermicelli Noodle Bowl.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts (if using) and serve with lime wedges on the side.
7. Enjoy!
- Toss everything together before eating and enjoy your Vermicelli Noodle Bowl with Shrimp, a light and flavorful dish bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
This Vermicelli Noodle Bowl with Shrimp is not only delicious but also incredibly customizable. You can add other fresh herbs, vegetables, or toppings like fried shallots or chopped scallions to suit your preferences. It's a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.