Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. While many traditional dishes are delicious, they may not always align with health goals. Fortunately, with a few tweaks, it’s possible to enjoy these classic Vietnamese dishes in a healthier way.
Pho with Zoodles: A Lighter Take on a Classic Dish
Pho, a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup, is often made with rice noodles. For a healthier alternative, try replacing the rice noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles. These low-carb noodles are packed with nutrients and add a refreshing twist to this classic dish.
Banh Mi Lettuce Wraps: Fresh and Flavorful
Banh mi sandwiches are a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, typically served on a crusty baguette. To lighten up this dish, skip the bread and use large lettuce leaves as wraps instead. Fill the lettuce wraps with grilled or roasted pork, pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber slices, and cilantro for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls with Shrimp and Quinoa: Nutrient-Packed Appetizers
Fresh spring rolls, or goi cuon, are a popular Vietnamese appetizer filled with shrimp, pork, or tofu, along with fresh herbs and vermicelli noodles. To boost the protein and fiber content, swap out the rice vermicelli noodles for cooked quinoa. These nutrient-packed spring rolls are perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer or snack.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Skewers with Cauliflower Rice: A Low-Carb Delight
Lemongrass chicken skewers are a flavorful Vietnamese dish that’s perfect for grilling. Marinate the chicken skewers in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and lime juice before grilling to perfection. Serve the grilled chicken skewers with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that’s bursting with flavor.
Goi Cuon with Tofu and Avocado: Fresh and Filling Summer Rolls
Goi cuon, or Vietnamese summer rolls, are made with rice paper wrappers filled with a variety of fresh ingredients. For a healthy twist, fill the rice paper wrappers with marinated tofu, creamy avocado slices, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and fresh herbs. These fresh and filling summer rolls are perfect for a light lunch or snack.
Vietnamese Beef Pho Salad Bowls: A Refreshing Twist on a Comforting Favorite
Beef pho is a comforting Vietnamese soup typically made with rice noodles and flavorful broth. For a lighter alternative, turn the flavors of beef pho into a refreshing salad bowl. Top a bed of mixed greens with thinly sliced beef, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, thinly sliced onions, and a squeeze of lime for a healthy and satisfying meal.
