Banh Mi Salad

Banh Mi Salad

  • 4-5

  • 45 min

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt
  • 3 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 4 tbsp lemongrass (frozen, fresh, or paste)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp chicken bouillon
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne powder
  • 1 tbsp neutral or olive oil
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp vodka (for flavor and tenderness, or substitute with soda)
  • Cracked black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp mayo
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil
  • 3-4 medium carrots
  • 1/3 daikon (white radish)
  • 1 cup boiling water (cooled)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup white distilled vinegar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2-3 Banh Mi or stale bread (e.g., plain baguettes)
  • Drizzle olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • White cabbage
  • Cucumbers
  • Pickled carrots and daikon
  • Fresh cilantro

The Ultimate Banh Mi Salad Recipe: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Delight You Need to Try

Meal prep does not have to be boring! If you're on the lookout for a delicious, fresh, and flavor-packed lunch (or dinner!) option, look no further. This Banh Mi Salad is the perfect blend of crispy, savory, and tangy flavors that'll transport your taste buds straight to Vietnam. Packed with juicy lemongrass pork skewers, crunchy pickled veggies, and crispy Banh Mi croutons, this salad is everything you love about the classic Banh Mi sandwich in a bowl!

Why You'll Love This Banh Mi Salad

Banh Mi sandwiches are legendary for their incredible combination of textures and flavors, and this salad captures all of that goodness in a lighter, meal-prep-friendly form. It's high in protein, packed with veggies, and completely customizable, making it the perfect addition to your weekly lunch rotation.

How to Make the Perfect Banh Mi Salad

Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate Banh Mi Salad that’s meal-prep friendly and bursting with flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Lemongrass Pork Skewers

Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors. Skewer the meat and air fry at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Once cooked, let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Sesame Soy Sauce Dressing

Whisk together the mayo, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Pickled Carrots and Daikon

Slice the carrots and daikon into matchsticks. Combine the cooled boiled water, sugar, vinegar, and salt, then pour over the veggies. Let them pickle for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Make the Banh Mi Croutons

Cut the Banh Mi bread into small cubes, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Air fry at 400°F for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Prep the Fresh Veggies

Wash and slice the white cabbage and cucumbers. Chop the cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.

Step 6: Assemble Your Banh Mi Salad

  • Start with a base of the juicy lemongrass pork.
  • Add a layer of plastic wrap over the pork and place your fresh veggies (white cabbage, cucumbers, pickled carrots and daikon, and cilantro) on top. This keeps them crisp and separate for easy reheating.
  • Keep the Banh Mi croutons aside until you're ready to eat to maintain their crunch.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Drizzle the sesame soy sauce dressing over your salad right before serving. Add a splash of sriracha if you’re feeling spicy! Serve extra dressing on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Banh Mi Salad

  • Marinate overnight: Letting the pork marinate overnight enhances the flavor.
  • Separate layers for meal prep: Keep proteins and veggies apart to avoid sogginess.
  • Customize it: Swap out pork for chicken or tofu to switch things up.

Why This Salad is Perfect for Meal Prep

Not only does this Banh Mi Salad taste amazing, but it’s also meal-prep-friendly, meaning you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store each component separately and combine right before eating for a fresh, crunchy, and satisfying meal.

Ready to Try It?

Get your air fryer ready and dive into this flavorful, nutrient-packed Banh Mi Salad. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a taste of Vietnam, whether you’re meal prepping for work or making a healthy dinner at home.

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Banh Mi Salad