Sweet Chili & Ground Beef Salad with Rice Noodles

Sweet Chili & Ground Beef Salad with Rice Noodles is a delightful blend of Asian-inspired flavors, offering a perfect combination of sweetness, spiciness, and savory goodness. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful addition to any meal rotation, especially for those seeking a quick and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients

To make this delicious salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Beef

1. Combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and ground ginger in a bowl.
2. Add the ground beef and mix well, ensuring the beef is thoroughly coated with the marinade.
3. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preparing the Rice Noodles

1. Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 10 minutes or according to package instructions.
2. Drain and set aside.

Chopping Vegetables

1. Thinly slice the bell peppers.
2. Chop the cilantro, mint, and Thai basil.
3. Slice the green onions.

Cooking the Beef

1. In a large skillet or wok, brown the marinated ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the sweet chili sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Assembling the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice noodles with the beef mixture.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and green onions.
3. Drizzle with lime juice and fish sauce.
4. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for any season. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup. For beverages, a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the noodles and beef mixture separate from the fresh herbs to maintain their texture.
• This dish is excellent for meal prep. Simply prepare all components and store them separately, then combine just before serving.

Nutritional Information

This dish is a balanced meal providing approximately:

• Calories: 400 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

What if I can’t find certain herbs?

If you can’t find Thai basil, regular basil can be used as a substitute. Cilantro and mint are also interchangeable with parsley.

Advanced Cooking Tips

• Use a wok for more even heat distribution and a more authentic stir-fry experience.
• Adjust the spice level by adding fresh chili peppers or reducing the amount of sweet chili sauce.
• Incorporate other vegetables like shredded carrots or cucumbers for additional texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.

For more variations and tips on Asian-inspired dishes, check out these easy Thai basil beef and Vietnamese rice noodle salad recipes.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili & Ground Beef Salad with Rice Noodles is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. Its quick preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Experiment with different vegetables and herbs to make it your own, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.