Vermicelli noodles are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory stir-fries to refreshing salads. Whether you enjoy something light and healthy or rich and hearty, there’s a vermicelli recipe to suit your taste.
Discover how these thin, delicate noodles can transform your meals into delicious and satisfying dishes. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special get-togethers, these 15 recipes will inspire you to incorporate vermicelli into your cooking repertoire with ease and creativity.
1) Lemon Garlic Vermicelli
Lemon Garlic Vermicelli is bright, zesty, and easy to prepare. Start by cooking the vermicelli noodles according to the package directions. Drain them well once they are cooked.
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, which takes about a minute.
Next, toss the cooked noodles into the skillet. Mix them well so that the garlic flavor spreads evenly.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the noodles and stir. Adjust the amount to suit your taste. For an extra touch, grate some lemon zest and sprinkle it on top.
Season with salt and pepper. You might also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese to enhance the flavors.
Serve hot, and garnish with chopped parsley or mint if desired. This dish makes a great quick lunch or side dish.
2) Thai Vermicelli Salad
Thai Vermicelli Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish. It combines flavors of spicy, tangy, and savory, making it a perfect choice for a light meal. You’ll find it filled with herbs, vegetables, and sometimes proteins like shrimp or chicken.
To make this salad, start by soaking the vermicelli noodles in warm water. Drain them well to remove any excess water. Ensuring the noodles are dry helps maintain the salad’s texture.
Add cooked proteins such as shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. You can also use minced chicken if you prefer.
Next, prepare your vegetables. Common choices include shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are essential for that authentic Thai flavor.
The dressing is what ties it all together. Mix lime juice with fish sauce, sugar, and chopped chilies. Adjust the quantities to taste, balancing the sour, sweet, salty, and spicy elements.
Combine the noodles, proteins, vegetables, and herbs in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently. Ensure every ingredient is coated with the flavorful dressing.
Serve your Thai Vermicelli Salad immediately. Top it with chopped peanuts for some added crunch. This salad not only tastes delicious but is also a feast for the eyes with its bright colors.
3) Vermicelli Stir Fry
Vermicelli stir fry is a quick and delicious meal. Start by heating oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and onions, and stir them for about a minute.
Next, add your choice of vegetables. Common options include carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, and mushrooms. Stir them until they are tender but still crisp.
Once the vegetables are cooked, add soaked vermicelli noodles to the pan. Pour in soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and any other seasonings you prefer. Use two spatulas to mix everything evenly.
For added flavor, you can include tofu, eggs, or a protein of your choice. Scramble the eggs in the pan first, then mix them with the noodles and vegetables.
Cook the mixture for a few more minutes until the noodles are hot. Serve your vermicelli stir fry immediately. Garnish with green onions or cilantro if you like.
This dish is flexible and can be modified with different vegetables and proteins. Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, and enjoy a savory, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
4) Coconut Curry Vermicelli
Coconut curry vermicelli is a delightful blend of creamy coconut milk and fragrant curry spices. It’s a simple and quick dish that packs a lot of flavors. You start by heating some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger for a burst of warmth and aroma.
Next, mix in your choice of curry paste. Red curry paste is a common choice. Fry it for a few minutes to bring out the flavors. Add protein like chicken or chickpeas, and cook until it’s done.
Pour in coconut milk and vegetable or chicken broth. This creates a rich, creamy base for the soup. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer.
While the soup simmers, cook the vermicelli noodles in a separate pot. These thin rice noodles cook quickly, usually in just a few minutes. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Add the cooked noodles to your pot of curry soup. Stir well to combine and ensure the noodles are well-coated with the delicious coconut curry broth. To add more texture and color, you can also toss in some sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots toward the end of cooking.
Serve your coconut curry vermicelli hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra touch of brightness. Enjoy this fragrant and creamy dish anytime you crave a comforting yet exotic meal.
5) Shrimp and Vermicelli Spring Rolls
Shrimp and vermicelli spring rolls are a refreshing and light dish, perfect for a quick meal or appetizer.
Start by preparing the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Rinse and drain them well.
Next, cook the shrimp. Boil them until they are pink and cooked through. Slice them in half lengthwise for easy rolling.
Fill a large bowl with warm water. Dip each rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds until it softens.
Lay the softened wrapper flat on a damp cutting board. Place a few shrimp halves across the center. Add a small amount of vermicelli noodles.
Include fresh herbs like mint, basil, and cilantro. Add thin slices of lettuce or other preferred vegetables for extra crunch.
Fold the sides of the wrapper inward. Then, roll tightly from the bottom to the top, enclosing all the ingredients.
Serve your spring rolls with a dipping sauce. A mix of hoisin sauce and peanut butter, or a tangy fish sauce blend, works great. They are best enjoyed fresh!
6) Vermicelli and Veggie Bowl
Start by soaking your vermicelli noodles. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Place the noodles in a wide bowl and pour the hot water over them. Let them soak for 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
While the noodles soak, prep your veggies. Use a mix of fresh, colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and lettuce. Julienne or slice them thinly. This adds texture and vibrant colors to your bowl.
Make a simple dressing. Combine sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and a bit of Sriracha for heat. Mix well. This dressing will give your bowl a tangy and spicy kick that’s hard to resist.
In a large bowl, toss the drained noodles with half of your dressing. Add the veggies on top. Pour the remaining dressing over the bowl and give everything a gentle toss to mix.
Top your vermicelli bowl with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for extra flavor. Add crushed peanuts for a crunchy texture. Enjoy your refreshing and flavorful Vermicelli and Veggie Bowl!
7) Garlic Butter Vermicelli
To make Garlic Butter Vermicelli, you’ll start by bringing water to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, soak your rice vermicelli for about three minutes until soft, then drain.
In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and let it cook until fragrant. This should take about one minute.
Next, add the cooked vermicelli to the pan and toss it gently to coat the noodles in the garlic butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the pan. Let it cook off for a couple of minutes while you stir the noodles.
Finish off the dish with a handful of chopped fresh parsley or some grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish.
8) Spicy Vermicelli Noodles
When you’re craving something with a bit of a kick, Spicy Vermicelli Noodles are a great choice. These noodles offer a bold and flavorful experience.
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a pan. Add in some spicy, fermented bean paste and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. This step will enhance the spiciness of your dish.
Next, mix in soy sauce and a bit of sugar. Saute this mixture for another minute. This will create a balanced sauce with a perfect blend of spicy and sweet.
Pour water into the pan and add your drained vermicelli noodles. Cover the pan and let it simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes. This helps the noodles soak up all the delicious flavors.
For an extra burst of taste, you can sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving. You can also add some sautéed vegetables or protein like tofu or chicken.
These spicy vermicelli noodles are quick to prepare and full of flavor. Enjoy them fresh and hot as a standalone dish or serve them with other Asian-inspired dishes for a complete meal.
9) Vermicelli Dessert (Seviyan Kheer)
Seviyan Kheer is a traditional Indian dessert made with vermicelli noodles. This sweet dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. You’ll need simple ingredients like vermicelli, milk, sugar, and a few spices.
To start, roast the vermicelli in a pan with a little ghee until it turns golden brown. This step adds a nutty flavor.
Next, add milk to the pan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vermicelli is soft and cooked.
Stir in sugar and cardamom powder. Keep stirring to prevent the mixture from sticking to the pan. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
You can also add nuts like almonds and cashews, along with raisins for extra flavor and texture. Fry the nuts in ghee before adding them to the kheer.
Serve Seviyan Kheer hot or cold, depending on your preference. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in any season.
10) Chicken Vermicelli Soup
Chicken Vermicelli Soup is a delightful and easy-to-make dish perfect for any season.
Start by heating chicken stock in a pot until it boils. Add shredded chicken pieces to the simmering stock.
In a separate pan, heat some vegetable oil and toast the vermicelli until it turns golden.
Combine the toasted vermicelli with the chicken stock and let it cook for a few minutes.
Add aromatics like ginger, garlic, and shallots for depth of flavor. You can also include spices such as star anise and coriander seeds.
Let everything simmer until the flavors meld together and the vermicelli is tender.
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting taste of Chicken Vermicelli Soup.
11) Vermicelli with Peanut Sauce
Vermicelli with peanut sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish. It combines the soft texture of vermicelli noodles with a creamy, nutty peanut sauce.
Start by cooking the vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
To make the peanut sauce, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Next, prepare your protein. Tofu works great for this dish. Press and cut tofu into cubes. Marinate the tofu in a mix of soy sauce and water for at least an hour. Then bake it at 390°F until golden brown.
To assemble, place the noodles in a bowl. Add your tofu on top. Drizzle over the peanut sauce and sprinkle some chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
For a fresh touch, you can add some vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers. Garnish with fresh mint or cilantro.
Enjoy your delicious Vermicelli with Peanut Sauce!
12) Mango Vermicelli Pudding
Mango Vermicelli Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional vermicelli desserts. This vibrant dish combines the sweet and tropical flavor of mango with the creamy texture of vermicelli pudding. It’s perfect for summertime.
You’ll need vermicelli, milk, sugar, and ripe mangoes. Cook the vermicelli in milk until soft and creamy. Add sugar and let it dissolve completely.
Next, puree fresh mangoes to get a smooth consistency. Mix the mango puree into the cooked vermicelli. Stir well until everything is combined nicely.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of cardamom powder. This spice enhances the overall taste and aroma of the pudding. You can also garnish the dish with chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for some crunch.
Serve the Mango Vermicelli Pudding chilled for a refreshing dessert. It’s a great choice for parties and gatherings.
13) Vermicelli and Meatball Soup
Vermicelli and meatball soup is a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. You start with ground meat to make the meatballs. Beef is common, but you can use chicken or turkey if you prefer. Season with salt, black pepper, and allspice.
Begin by frying the meatballs until they are browned. This helps to lock in the flavor. In a separate pot, cook the vermicelli briefly.
Next, prepare a simple broth. Use chicken or beef stock and add garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Bring this mixture to a boil. Add the browned meatballs and vermicelli to the pot.
Let everything simmer. The meatballs cook through and the vermicelli becomes tender as they soak up the broth’s flavor. You can add green herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for extra freshness.
This soup pairs well with a slice of crusty bread. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in. Enjoy the balanced mix of tender meatballs and soft vermicelli in every spoonful.
14) Vermicelli with Basil Pesto
Vermicelli with basil pesto is a light and flavorful dish. The pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, blends wonderfully with the thin vermicelli noodles.
Cook the vermicelli according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
While the noodles are cooking, prepare the basil pesto. Blend fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Slowly add olive oil until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
Once the vermicelli is cooked, drain it and immediately toss it with the basil pesto. The heat from the noodles helps the pesto coat them evenly.
Add a bit of salt and pepper to taste, and if you like, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra zing.
Serve the vermicelli hot or at room temperature. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or grilled vegetables.
For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp on top. Either way, this dish is sure to be a hit with its fresh and vibrant flavors.
15) Vermicelli Tacos
Vermicelli Tacos are a tasty twist on traditional tacos. You start by cooking vermicelli until it’s tender. Use a skillet with a bit of oil to lightly toast the noodles. This adds a nice texture.
For the filling, mix cooked vermicelli with seasoned ground beef or your favorite protein.
Add tomatoes, onions, and spices like cumin and chili powder for a burst of flavor.
Fill taco shells with the vermicelli mixture. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
If you want a vegan option, swap the meat for black beans or tofu.
These tacos are quick to make and fun for family dinners. They combine the crunch of tacos with the satisfying bite of noodles.
Enjoy these tacos with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad.
Health Benefits of Vermicelli
Vermicelli can be a nutritious addition to your diet, depending on its type. It offers specific vitamins and minerals and, in some cases, may be a good option if you need to avoid gluten.
Nutritional Value
Vermicelli, especially when made from whole wheat, contains several essential nutrients. It provides a range of B vitamins, like thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and folate (B9). These vitamins help maintain your energy levels and support brain function.
Whole wheat vermicelli also contains iron, which is crucial for transporting oxygen in your blood. Rice vermicelli is lower in calories, at about 157 calories per 100 grams. Both types are rich in carbohydrates, giving you quick energy.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need to avoid gluten, rice vermicelli is a great alternative. Made from rice flour, it is naturally gluten-free. This makes it safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Millet vermicelli is another gluten-free option. It provides a different texture and taste but still offers similar nutrients. Both options allow you to enjoy vermicelli dishes without worrying about gluten.
Cooking Techniques for Vermicelli
Mastering different ways to cook vermicelli can enhance your dishes, making them versatile and delicious. Learn how to boil, stir-fry, and bake vermicelli dishes to perfection.
Boiling Vermicelli
Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Add the vermicelli and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
Tips:
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, drain the water and rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking.
- This method keeps the noodles from becoming mushy and is great for soups and salads.
Stir-frying Vermicelli
Begin by soaking the vermicelli in warm water for 5-10 minutes until soft. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Steps:
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add vegetables, meat, or tofu, and stir-fry until cooked.
- Add the soaked vermicelli and stir continuously to mix everything together.
Make sure the vermicelli is well-coated with sauce and ingredients. This method is perfect for dishes like stir-fried noodles or pad Thai.
Baking Vermicelli Dishes
For baked vermicelli dishes, pre-cook the vermicelli by soaking it in warm water for a few minutes, then draining.
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the pre-soaked vermicelli with your choice of sauce, vegetables, and proteins.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for around 20 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to let the top crisp up. This technique works well for casseroles and baked pasta dishes.
Vermicelli in Global Cuisines
Vermicelli is a versatile ingredient featured in dishes across many cultures. From Asian stir-fries to Middle Eastern sweets, it adapts to various flavors and cooking styles.
Asian Cuisine
In Asia, vermicelli is prevalent in many traditional recipes. In Vietnam, Bún is a popular vermicelli dish combined with fresh herbs, vegetables, and grilled meats or tofu. Thai cuisine features Pad Woon Sen, a stir-fry with glass noodles, typically made with protein and vegetables, seasoned with soy sauce and garlic.
Japanese cuisine uses vermicelli in salads like Harusame Salad and soups such as Shirataki Noodles, benefiting from its light texture. In India, vermicelli is used in Upma, a savory breakfast dish with vegetables and spices.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Middle Eastern cuisine often includes vermicelli in sweet and savory dishes. In Lebanon and Syria, Kheer is a popular dessert made from vermicelli cooked in milk with sugar, cardamom, and nuts. Vermicelli is also used in Pilaf, where it is lightly fried with rice and cooked in broth to give a rich flavor.
This cuisine also features Shamiyah, a semisweet dish made by roasting vermicelli before combining it with sugar syrup, ghee, and water, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. These dishes frequently incorporate spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhancing the overall taste.
Western Cuisine
In Western cuisines, vermicelli finds its place in soups and salads. Italian Capellini or Angel Hair Pasta is a type of vermicelli often served with light sauces, olive oil, garlic, and fresh tomatoes. In France, it appears in Potage, a clear broth soup enriched with vermicelli.
American cuisine features vermicelli in both cold pasta salads and warm baked casseroles. Often mixed with vegetables, cheese, and sauces, these dishes highlight the pasta’s versatility. In Latin America, Sopa de Fideos uses vermicelli in a tomato-based broth with spices like cumin and chili powder, delivering a hearty soup.
By incorporating vermicelli into your cooking, you can explore a world of flavors and textures, making mealtime both interesting and delicious.
