Easy Spicy Rice Paper Salad (Vietnamese-Inspired)

By Sho @ Hungry for Thai on Feb 7th 2025 Updated: Jul 31st 2025

Looking for a fun and flavorful way to enjoy rice paper that isn’t a roll?

This Vietnamese Rice Paper Salad (Bánh Tráng Trộn) is an easy-assembly meal that’s packed with all the bold, spicy, sour, and savory flavors of Southeast Asia.

Think of it as a deconstructed rice paper roll—but with way more personality!

It’s known as Bánh Tráng Trộn in Vietnam. It’s popular as a street food snack, often sold in bags ready to mix and eat!

What you'll need

• Rice Paper – Soft and chewy when soaked, serving as the base of the salad.
• Pepper – Adds a spicy kick and enhances the heat level of the dish.
• Chili Powder – Provides color, depth, and an additional layer of spice.
• Pepper – Adds a spicy kick and enhances the heat level of the dish.
• Minced Garlic – Brings a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the savory dressing.
• Scallions – Adds a mild onion flavor and a fresh, crisp texture.
• Sesame Seeds – Enhances the salad with a nutty aroma and slight crunch.
• Light Soy Sauce – Infuses the dish with a deep, savory umami taste.
• Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich, slightly sweet, and salty depth of flavor.
• Allulose (or sugar/honey substitute) – A natural sugar substitute that balances the acidity and spice.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy sharpness to brighten the overall flavor.
• Vegetable Oil – Used to heat and activate the spices, creating a fragrant dressing. (In this recipe, I use refined almond oil.)
• Sesame Oil (optional)– A rich, nutty oil made from sesame seeds.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Rice Paper Salad Recipe 🩷

• No cooking required! (Unless you’re adding seafood or protein)
• A Vietnamese rice paper snack recipe turned into a meal!
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and spice levels
• A fun, hands-on way to enjoy bold, addictive flavors
• Perfect for meal prep, lunch, or even a light dinner

How to Make Spicy Rice Paper Salad

1. Cut rice paper into 1-inch strips. Set aside.
2. Mix garlic, pepper, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili powder, allulose (or sugar/honey), vinegar, and sesame seeds in a bowl.
3. Soak rice paper strips in room-temp water for 20–30 seconds until just soft. Drain and let sit.
4. Add rice paper to the dressing bowl.
5. Warm oil in a pan (not smoking), then pour it over the mixture to boost flavor. Mix gently.
6. Top with sesame seeds or peanuts. Serve right away for the best chewy texture.

What to Serve With

Looking for the perfect sides to round out your meal? Here are some tasty ideas:

🥗 Starter: Summer Salad Rolls – light, crunchy, and perfect with a peanut dipping sauce!

🥩 Main Course: Grilled Pork Salad with Cucumber – smoky and juicy, pairs beautifully with this fresh salad.

🍛 Side Dish: Easy Pickled Cucumber Salad – a cooling contrast to the spice.

🍰 Dessert: Easy Air Fryer Banana Brownie – the perfect sweet bite to end the meal.

What kind of rice paper should I use?

Use the dry rice paper sheets typically used for fresh rolls.

You can find them at Asian grocery stores, online, or in the international aisle of larger supermarkets.

I've added my own little twist to create this Spicy Rice Paper Salad (Vietnamese-Inspired).

While both dishes share many similarities, there are key differences in ingredients, preparation, and traditional elements that make each version unique.

My take on the dish is spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a focus on easy-to-find ingredients and a fuss-free method.

If you want a simple, spicy, and chewy salad with common ingredients, try the Spicy Rice Paper Salad

My Spicy Rice Paper Salad is light, crunchy, and full of bold flavors—perfect for a refreshing bite.

But if you're looking to turn it into a heartier meal, why not add some protein?

These vegan souvlaki tofu skewers are a delicious and satisfying side, with smoky, herby notes that complement the tangy, spicy kick of the salad.

Having a delicious side dish with Spicy Rice Paper Salad makes for a perfect combo meal. Give them a try!

Let this Vietnamese rice paper salad become your new go-to for summer meals, light lunches, or spicy snack cravings.

It’s crunchy, chewy, spicy, sour, salty—and totally addictive!