Easy and Healthy Vietnamese Dinner Recipes for Busy People

Eating healthy doesn't have to be time-consuming, especially when it comes to preparing Vietnamese dinner recipes. Packed with flavors and nutrients, these dishes are perfect for busy individuals looking to whip up a quick yet healthy meal. Below are some easy Vietnamese dinner recipes that you can prepare in under 30 minutes.

1. Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken

This dish is not only flavorful but also light and healthy. Lemongrass adds a fresh aroma, making it an ideal quick dinner option.

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons lemongrass, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and fish sauce for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or salad.

2. Vietnamese Pho Soup

Nothing beats a warm bowl of pho after a long day. This quick version is just as satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 package of rice noodles
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Basil and cilantro for garnish
  • Sriracha for heat (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer.
  3. Add the cooked chicken and green onions to the broth, allowing them to warm up for about 5 minutes.
  4. Place the rice noodles in a bowl, pour the broth mixture over them, and garnish with basil, cilantro, and sriracha.

3. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-fry

This quick and easy stir-fry is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It's packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a vegetarian favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables and ginger, stir-frying until the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Pour in the soy sauce, stir well, and serve immediately with brown rice.

4. Vietnamese Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh and light, shrimp spring rolls are an excellent choice for a quick dinner. They are full of colors and flavors and can be made in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 10 rice paper wraps
  • 1 cup cooked shrimp, halved
  • 1 cup lettuce leaves
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Fresh mint and basil leaves
  • Dipping sauce (nuoc cham or peanut sauce)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the rice paper wraps in warm water until soft, about 10 seconds.
  2. Lay the wrap on a flat surface and layer lettuce, shrimp, carrot, and herbs.
  3. Roll tightly,