The Top Vietnamese Salads to Serve at Your Next BBQ

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh flavors and vibrant dishes. If you’re planning a barbecue and want to impress your guests with something unique, consider serving these top Vietnamese salads. They are not only delicious but also refreshing, making them the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and seafood.

1. Gỏi Đu Đủ (Green Papaya Salad)

Gỏi Đu Đủ is a crunchy salad made from green papaya, carrots, and herbs, mixed with a tangy dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. This vibrant salad is often topped with roasted peanuts and crispy shallots. It’s an excellent choice to cut through the richness of BBQ dishes and offers a refreshing crunch.

2. Gỏi Ngó Sen (Lotus Stem Salad)

This delightful salad features thinly sliced lotus stems, carrots, and vermicelli noodles, combined with a medley of herbs such as mint and cilantro. The dressing is typically a combination of lime juice, fish sauce, and chili for a zesty kick. Gỏi Ngó Sen is light yet satisfying, making it a great way to elevate your barbecue spread.

3. Gỏi Tôm (Shrimp Salad)

Gỏi Tôm is a savory and refreshing salad that combines succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The dressing often features a mix of lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and sour flavors. This salad not only tastes amazing but also adds an elegant touch to your BBQ table.

4. Gỏi Bắp Cải (Cabbage Salad)

This simple yet satisfying salad consists of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a variety of herbs. The key to an excellent Gỏi Bắp Cải is the dressing, usually made with vinegar, sugar, and fish sauce. Serve it alongside grilled meats for a delightful crunch and flavor contrast that guests will love.

5. Gỏi Xoài (Green Mango Salad)

Gỏi Xoài features tangy green mango, which adds a refreshing twist to any barbecue. Combined with shredded carrots, herbs, and a zesty lime and fish sauce dressing, this salad can bring a perfect balance to your grilled items. For a variety of textures, you can also add crushed peanuts or dried shrimp.

6. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

While not a salad in the traditional sense, these fresh spring rolls are a must-have. Made with rice paper filled with shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and vegetables, Gỏi Cuốn are light and refreshing. Serve them with a homemade peanut sauce or hoisin-based dipping sauce for extra flavor. They make a great finger food at your BBQ gathering.

7. Gỏi Dưa Hấu (Watermelon Salad)

Add a sweet twist to your BBQ with Gỏi Dưa Hấu. This salad typically consists of watermelon, cucumber, mint, and sometimes feta cheese. Dressed with lime juice and chili flakes, it creates a perfect balance of flavors that is especially refreshing on hot summer days.

These Vietnamese salads are not only full of flavor but also bring a colorful presentation to your barbecue. Incorporating these dishes into your menu will surely impress your guests and enhance their dining experience. Whether you prefer something crunchy, tangy, or sweet, there’s a Vietnamese salad that will complement your BBQ perfectly!