Vermicelli noodles are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many tasty dishes. These thin, round noodles are made from rice or mung beans and are popular in Asian cuisine. They cook quickly and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for soups, stir-fries, and salads.
You’ll find a variety of delicious vermicelli recipes that are easy to make at home. From Vietnamese pho to Singapore noodles, there’s something for everyone. These recipes often include fresh vegetables, proteins like chicken or shrimp, and flavorful sauces. You can customize many of these dishes to suit your taste or dietary needs.
1. Garlic Shrimp Vermicelli
Garlic shrimp vermicelli is a tasty dish that combines succulent shrimp with thin rice noodles. To make it, you’ll need shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and plenty of garlic.
Start by soaking the vermicelli in hot water. While it softens, cook minced garlic in butter or oil until golden. Add the shrimp and cook until pink.
Drain the noodles and add them to the pan with the shrimp. Mix in some soy sauce, rice wine, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
You can also try a steamed version. Layer soaked vermicelli and raw shrimp in a dish, top with garlic and sauce, then steam for about 5 minutes until the shrimp are cooked.
2. Spicy Peanut Vermicelli Salad
This zesty dish combines the best of both worlds – cool vermicelli noodles and a spicy peanut sauce. Start by cooking the noodles according to package instructions, then rinse them in cold water.
Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sriracha, and a touch of honey for the spicy peanut sauce. Toss the cooled noodles with the sauce, adding sliced cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers for crunch.
Top your salad with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. This refreshing meal is perfect for hot summer days or as a quick lunch option. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less sriracha.
3. Lemon Herb Vermicelli
Lemon herb vermicelli is a light and refreshing dish perfect for warm days. You’ll love the bright flavors of lemon zest and fresh herbs mixed with delicate vermicelli noodles.
To make it, cook the vermicelli according to package directions. While the noodles cool, prepare a simple lemon cream sauce. Heat cream in a pot, then stir in lemon zest and juice.
Toss the cooled noodles with the lemon sauce. Add chopped herbs like mint, basil, or parsley for extra freshness. Top with grilled chicken or tofu for protein if you’d like.
This versatile dish works well as a side or light main course. The tangy lemon and herbs pair nicely with the mild vermicelli.
4. Singapore Vermicelli Stir-Fry
Singapore Vermicelli Stir-Fry is a tasty dish that combines thin rice noodles with a mix of proteins and veggies. You’ll find shrimp, chicken, or pork in most versions.
The key to this recipe is the curry powder. It gives the noodles their signature yellow color and spicy flavor. You’ll also add soy sauce and other seasonings for extra taste.
To make this dish, start by soaking the vermicelli noodles in warm water. While they soak, prep your ingredients. Stir-fry the meats and veggies first, then add the drained noodles and seasonings.
Cook everything together until the noodles are hot and well-coated with the spices. Serve your Singapore Vermicelli Stir-Fry right away for the best flavor and texture.
5. Creamy Pesto Vermicelli
Creamy pesto vermicelli is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in about 15 minutes. Start by cooking your vermicelli according to the package instructions.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a skillet, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and milk, then stir in your favorite pesto.
Once the vermicelli is done, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated.
Serve your creamy pesto vermicelli hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
6. Thai Basil Chicken Vermicelli
This dish combines tender chicken with fragrant Thai basil and vermicelli noodles. You’ll love the bold flavors and simple preparation.
Start by cooking vermicelli noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Stir-fry chicken pieces in a hot wok with oil. Add minced garlic, ginger, and Thai chili peppers for extra kick.
Pour in a savory sauce made from fish sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. Toss in fresh Thai basil leaves until they wilt slightly.
Mix the chicken and sauce with your cooked vermicelli noodles. Garnish with chopped peanuts and extra basil if you like.
7. Beef and Broccoli Vermicelli
Beef and broccoli vermicelli is a tasty dish that combines tender meat, crisp veggies, and thin noodles. You’ll love how the flavors mix together.
To make it, cook vermicelli noodles and set them aside. Then, stir-fry beef strips until they’re browned. Add broccoli florets and cook until they’re bright green.
Mix everything in a bowl with a savory sauce. You can use soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar for extra flavor. This meal is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
Try adding other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more color and crunch. You can also swap beef for chicken or tofu if you prefer.
8. Mediterranean Vermicelli with Olives
You’ll love this flavorful Mediterranean twist on vermicelli. Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a pan, sauté garlic and onions in olive oil. Add chopped tomatoes, olives, and herbs like oregano and basil.
Toss the cooked vermicelli with the Mediterranean mixture. Sprinkle with feta cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice.
This dish brings together classic Mediterranean flavors. The olives add a salty bite, while the herbs provide freshness. It’s perfect as a light meal or side dish.
9. Vermicelli Carbonara
Vermicelli carbonara is a tasty twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. You’ll love this creamy, savory meal that’s quick to make.
Start by cooking bacon until crispy. While the vermicelli boils, beat eggs with grated cheese in a bowl. Add some black pepper for extra flavor.
Drain the pasta and mix it with the egg mixture. The heat from the vermicelli will cook the eggs, creating a silky sauce. Toss in the crispy bacon and stir well.
Serve your vermicelli carbonara hot, topped with more cheese if you like. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner or impressive date night meal.
10. Shiitake Mushroom Vermicelli
This dish combines earthy shiitake mushrooms with delicate vermicelli noodles. Soak dried shiitakes in hot water for 15 minutes to rehydrate them. Save the flavorful soaking liquid for the sauce.
Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions, then rinse with cold water. Slice the mushrooms and stir-fry them with minced garlic and chopped chilies for a spicy kick.
Toss the cooked noodles with the mushrooms, adding soy sauce, sesame oil, and a splash of the mushroom soaking liquid. Mix in some chopped scallions or chives for freshness. This simple yet tasty meal comes together quickly and satisfies your umami cravings.
11. Sesame Ginger Vermicelli
Sesame ginger vermicelli is a tasty and light dish you can whip up quickly. You’ll love the mix of thin rice noodles with a tangy sesame ginger sauce.
To make it, cook the vermicelli noodles and toss them with a dressing made of sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Add your favorite veggies like spinach, avocado, or sweet potato for extra flavor and nutrition.
This dish is great for warm days when you want something refreshing. You can serve it hot or cold, making it perfect for any season. Try adding crispy tofu or chicken for extra protein.
12. Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Vermicelli
This dish combines vermicelli with flavorful sun-dried tomatoes for a tasty vegan meal. Cook the vermicelli according to package instructions.
While the pasta cooks, make a creamy sauce by blending soaked cashews, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings. Sauté extra sun-dried tomatoes and garlic in a pan.
Mix the cooked vermicelli with the blended sauce and sautéed ingredients. Add pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This quick and easy recipe gives you a rich, satisfying vegan pasta dish in under 30 minutes.
13. Tuna and Capers Vermicelli
This quick and tasty dish combines the briny flavors of capers with flaky tuna. Cook vermicelli noodles until al dente, then toss with olive oil and set aside.
In a pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil. Add canned tuna and drained capers, stirring gently to combine. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Toss the vermicelli with the tuna mixture. Add chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For extra depth, try adding some halved cherry tomatoes or sliced olives. This simple yet flavorful meal comes together in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
14. Honey Garlic Vermicelli Noodles
Honey garlic vermicelli noodles offer a sweet and savory twist on a classic dish. You’ll love the balance of flavors in this quick and easy meal.
Start by cooking the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. While they cook, prepare a simple sauce using honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar.
In a hot pan, stir-fry some vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Add the cooked noodles and sauce to the pan. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated and heated through.
Serve your honey garlic vermicelli noodles hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. This versatile dish works great as a main course or a side dish.
15. Coconut Curry Vermicelli Soup
This comforting soup combines vermicelli noodles with a rich coconut curry broth. You’ll love the blend of aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk.
Start by sautéing garlic, ginger, and curry paste in a large pot. Add chicken or tofu for protein. Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, and fish sauce to create the flavorful base.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Add vermicelli noodles and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes. Toss in some veggies like carrots or bok choy for extra nutrition.
Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy this quick and tasty meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Vermicelli
Vermicelli offers several key nutritional benefits. It can be a good source of energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber depending on the type you choose.
Caloric Content
Vermicelli provides energy in the form of carbohydrates. A 1-cup serving of cooked vermicelli contains about 200 calories. This makes it a good option for fueling your body.
The calorie content can vary slightly based on whether it’s made from rice, wheat, or other grains. Whole grain vermicelli tends to have slightly more calories but also more nutrients.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vermicelli contains various vitamins and minerals that support your health. It’s a good source of B vitamins, especially thiamin, niacin, and folate.
These B vitamins help your body turn food into energy. They also play a role in brain function and forming red blood cells.
Vermicelli also provides some iron and selenium. Iron is important for carrying oxygen in your blood. Selenium acts as an antioxidant to protect your cells.
Dietary Fiber
The fiber content of vermicelli depends on the type you choose. Whole grain vermicelli offers more fiber than refined versions.
Fiber helps you feel full and supports healthy digestion. It can also help control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
A 1-cup serving of whole grain vermicelli provides about 2-3 grams of fiber. This is about 10% of your daily fiber needs.
Eating vermicelli with vegetables and legumes can further boost the fiber content of your meal.
Cooking Techniques for Vermicelli
Vermicelli is a versatile noodle that can be prepared in various ways. The right cooking method brings out its best qualities and enhances your dishes.
Boiling
Boiling is the most common way to cook vermicelli. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir gently to prevent clumping.
Check the noodles often. They’re done when tender but still slightly firm. This is called “al dente.”
Drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also removes excess starch and prevents sticking.
For cold dishes, toss the cooled noodles with a bit of oil. This keeps them from clumping together.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying gives vermicelli a delicious flavor and texture. Start by soaking the noodles in hot water until soft. Drain well before cooking.
Heat oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add your choice of vegetables and protein. Cook these ingredients first.
Add the softened noodles to the pan. Stir-fry quickly, tossing to combine with other ingredients. Be careful not to overcook.
Pour in your sauce and continue stirring. The noodles will absorb the flavors as they cook. This method works great for dishes like pad thai or lo mein.
Baking
Baking vermicelli creates a unique texture and is perfect for casseroles. Start by cooking the noodles as you would for boiling, but leave them slightly undercooked.
Mix the noodles with your chosen ingredients and sauce in a baking dish. Common additions include cheese, vegetables, and meat.
Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to brown the top if desired.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to portion.
Pairing Vermicelli with Other Ingredients
Vermicelli noodles are versatile and pair well with many flavors and textures. You can mix and match proteins, veggies, and sauces to create tasty dishes.
Protein Options
Try tofu cubes for a vegetarian option. Slice extra-firm tofu and fry it in oil with soy sauce until golden. Chicken and shrimp work great too. Grilled meats add smoky flavors. For a vegan dish, use plant-based proteins like tempeh or seitan.
Beef and pork are tasty choices. Thinly slice the meat and stir-fry it quickly. Fish like salmon or cod can be flaked and mixed in. Eggs make a cheap and easy protein – scramble them or make a thin omelet and slice it.
Vegetables
Add color and crunch with veggies. Carrots, cucumbers, and bean sprouts are classics. Slice them thin or julienne for easy eating. Bell peppers and snap peas provide sweetness. Try mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Leafy greens like spinach or bok choy wilt nicely into hot noodles. Roasted veggies like broccoli or zucchini add depth. Don’t forget herbs – mint, cilantro, and Thai basil are popular choices.
For a Japanese twist, use bamboo shoots and asparagus. Edamame beans give a protein boost too.
Sauces and Seasonings
Sauces bring vermicelli dishes to life. Try a tangy fish sauce with lime juice for a Vietnamese flair. Peanut sauce adds rich, nutty flavors. Mix it with soy sauce, garlic, and lime.
Soy sauce and sesame oil make a simple dressing. Add chili oil or Sriracha for heat. Curry powder gives a warm, spicy kick. Experiment with different spice blends.
For a refreshing touch, squeeze fresh lemon or lime over your noodles. Garlic and ginger are great flavor boosters. Don’t forget salt and pepper to enhance all the tastes.