Image from: https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/lemongrass-pork-and-rice-noodle-bowl
Looking for a fresh, flavourful, and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and vibrant? This healthy lemongrass noodle bowl is a perfect balance of light yet filling, combining fresh herbs, tender noodles, and a tangy lemongrass-infused dressing. It’s ideal for lunch or dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients, and can easily be customised with your favorite vegetables and protein choices. With the aromatic flavors of lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, this bowl will transport your taste buds to a delightful, refreshing experience.
Ingredients
For the Noodle Bowl:
- 200g rice noodles (or any noodles of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red capsicum, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Lemongrass Dressing:
- 1 stalk of fresh lemongrass, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain fully.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the cucumber, shred the carrots, and slice the red capsicum into thin strips. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small blender or food processor, combine the chopped lemongrass (or lemongrass paste), soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, lime juice, water, and sesame oil. Blend until smooth, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed (you can add more lime juice for acidity or honey for sweetness).
- Once your noodles are ready, place them in a large bowl. Add the prepared vegetables on top: cucumber, carrots, and capsicum. Drizzle the lemongrass dressing over the top, using as much as you prefer.
- Garnish the bowl with fresh coriander, mint, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor. Toss everything together gently so that the noodles and veggies are well coated in the dressing.
- Serve your lemongrass noodle bowl immediately for a fresh, crunchy, and vibrant meal. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can easily be made vegan or customised with your choice of protein, such as tofu, grilled chicken, or prawn.
Tips
- You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Add some heat to the dish by including chili flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers if you like a bit of spice.
- For extra protein, consider adding tofu or grilled chicken to the bowl.
Enjoy this flavourful and healthy lemongrass noodle bowl, packed with fresh veggies, aromatic herbs, and a tangy dressing that will become your go-to meal for any occasion!
