Mary Berry Noodle Nori Salad Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is a must-try!

With its combination of tender noodles, savory nori, and crunchy vegetables, this recipe brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes to the table. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also light yet satisfying, making it ideal for everything from a quick lunch to a side dish for dinner. Plus, with Mary Berry’s expert touch, you can trust that every bite will be perfectly balanced, making it a go-to recipe for anyone wanting something simple but extraordinary!

Mary Berry Noodle Nori Salad Recipe

Ingredients Needed

The beauty of Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad lies in its balance of vibrant textures, flavors, and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients that create this exciting dish.

1. Noodles – Typically, this salad uses either soba noodles (made from buckwheat) or rice noodles. These noodles form the base, providing a soft, slightly chewy texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The noodles should be cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too mushy once tossed in the dressing.

2. Nori – Nori, the thin, dark seaweed often used in sushi, brings a delicious umami flavor to the salad. It also adds a slight crispiness when shredded. Nori is packed with essential minerals like iodine, calcium, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to the dish.

3. Vegetables – Fresh and colorful vegetables are a key element. A mixture of julienned cucumber, shredded carrots, and radishes not only adds vibrant hues but also a refreshing crunch. These vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, offering a crisp contrast to the soft noodles.

4. Fresh Herbs – Fresh coriander (cilantro) or mint gives the salad a bright, aromatic flavor that lifts the whole dish. These herbs bring freshness and a hint of zest, which balances the earthiness of the noodles and seaweed.

5. Peanuts – Crushed or whole peanuts add a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to the salad. They also contribute healthy fats and protein, making the salad more filling and wholesome.

6. Dressing Ingredients – The dressing is a mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey or sugar to add sweetness. This blend of salty, tangy, and sweet flavors works wonders in bringing all the components together. A bit of grated ginger or garlic can also be included to provide an aromatic punch.

7. Optional Garnishes – If you want to elevate your salad, you can add sesame seeds, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor. The lime adds an extra citrusy zing, while the sesame seeds bring both texture and a rich, nutty flavor.

Equipment Needed

While Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is straightforward to make, there are a few essential kitchen tools that will help you prepare the dish with ease.

1. Large Pot – A large pot is necessary for boiling the noodles. You’ll need enough space to ensure the noodles can cook evenly and not stick together.

2. Strainer or Colander – After cooking the noodles, you’ll need a strainer or colander to drain them. Be sure to rinse the noodles under cold water to prevent them from overcooking and to stop them from clumping together.

3. Sharp Knife – A good, sharp knife is crucial for cutting the vegetables into thin strips or julienne pieces. The thinner the slices, the better the texture of the salad.

4. Cutting Board – To chop and prepare the vegetables, a sturdy cutting board is essential. It’ll keep your kitchen surfaces clean and allow you to slice your ingredients with precision.

5. Mixing Bowl – You’ll need a large mixing bowl to toss all the ingredients together once the noodles and vegetables are prepped. A bowl with enough room ensures that everything gets evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Whisk or Fork – For mixing and emulsifying the dressing, a whisk or even a fork can do the job. The goal is to combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and sweetener into a smooth, cohesive sauce.

7. Small Bowl (Optional) – If you decide to garnish the salad with sesame seeds or chili flakes, a small bowl can help you prepare and sprinkle the garnishes evenly.

8. Serving Platter or Bowls – Finally, a large serving platter or individual bowls are ideal for presenting the finished salad. Since this is a fresh, vibrant dish, you’ll want to showcase the colors and textures.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad

Making Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is quick, simple, and the result is nothing short of delicious. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Prepare the Noodles – Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add your choice of noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes for soba noodles or rice noodles.

   Be careful not to overcook them!

   Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop them from cooking further.

2. Chop the Vegetables – While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables. Using a sharp knife, julienne the cucumber, carrots, and radishes into thin strips. These should be of a similar size to maintain a uniform texture in the salad. Set them aside in a bowl.

3. Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey (or sugar). If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or some grated ginger and garlic. Whisk until the mixture is well combined.

4. Shred the Nori – Tear or cut the nori into small strips. You can use scissors for a more controlled cut. The nori should be shredded into small pieces so it can be evenly distributed throughout the salad.

5. Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the prepared vegetables. Toss them gently to combine. Then, pour over the dressing and toss again to ensure everything is coated with the flavorful mixture.

6. Add Garnishes – Sprinkle the crushed peanuts and shredded nori over the top. If desired, garnish with fresh coriander or mint for a burst of freshness. You can also add sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

7. Serve – Once everything is well combined, transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Expert Tips

1. Noodle Texture – For the perfect noodle texture, be sure to rinse them with cold water after cooking. This helps remove excess starch and keeps them from becoming gummy or sticking together.

2. Make Ahead – This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time. However, if you plan to store it, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid the noodles and vegetables becoming soggy.

3. Customizing the Salad – Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is highly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or avocado, for added flavor and nutrition. You could also swap the peanuts for cashews or almonds if you prefer.

4. Vegan or Gluten-Free – If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, it’s easy to make the salad vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey. For a gluten-free version, ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free, or you can use tamari as a substitute.

5. Balance the Dressing – The key to a great noodle salad is a balanced dressing. If it’s too salty, add a little more vinegar or honey. If it’s too sweet, increase the soy sauce or sesame oil. Adjust the dressing to suit your personal taste.

Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is a harmonious blend of fresh, healthy ingredients with bold flavors and textures. The combination of chewy noodles, crisp vegetables, and the umami punch of nori creates a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or even as a base for a protein like chicken or tofu, it’s a versatile and vibrant recipe that will surely impress.

By using simple yet flavorful ingredients and following a straightforward preparation process, this salad is a great choice for anyone looking to create a quick, delicious, and visually stunning dish. Plus, it’s adaptable, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences or dietary needs. With these expert tips in hand, you’ll be able to recreate this dish to perfection every time, making it a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad

Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is a light, refreshing, and versatile dish, perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish to complement a main meal. While the basic recipe offers a great starting point, there are countless ways to modify it to suit your personal taste, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients. Here are some creative and easy variations to consider:

1. Add Protein For Extra Satiety

   • Grilled Chicken: Thinly sliced grilled chicken breast can add a savory protein boost to the salad. Simply marinate the chicken in a light soy sauce and garlic mixture before grilling for an added layer of flavor.
   • Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan option, cubed, pan-fried tofu works wonderfully. It soaks up the salad’s dressing and adds a satisfying texture.
   • Shrimp: Lightly seared shrimp or prawns are another fantastic option to elevate the dish with a touch of seafood. Toss them in a bit of sesame oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes before adding them to the salad.

2. Incorporate Different Vegetables

   • Cucumber and Carrot: For extra crunch, thinly sliced cucumber and julienned carrots can bring both texture and a refreshing flavor to the salad. They’re especially great during warmer months.
   • Edamame: These vibrant green soybeans add protein and a bit of earthiness to the salad. They also introduce an extra pop of color.
   • Bell Peppers: Thinly sliced bell peppers, whether red, yellow, or green, will give the salad a sweet and juicy contrast to the salty seaweed.

3. Change Up The Noodles

   • Rice Noodles: If you want a gluten-free version, swap out traditional noodles for rice noodles. They absorb the dressing beautifully and provide a lighter texture.
   • Udon Noodles: For a chewier, more substantial noodle, udon works excellently. It’s thicker than standard noodles, so it holds up well in the dressing.
   • Soba Noodles: Soba noodles bring an earthy flavor to the dish, especially when paired with a soy-based dressing. They also add more texture and complexity.

4. Switch Up The Dressing

   • Sesame Peanut Dressing: For a richer, creamier twist, consider making a sesame peanut dressing. Blend together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of honey for a creamy dressing that complements the noodles and nori.
   • Lemon and Ginger Dressing: For a zesty, refreshing option, swap out the soy-based dressing for one made with fresh lemon juice, grated ginger, and a touch of maple syrup. This bright dressing adds a nice kick and enhances the fresh veggies in the salad.

5. Top With Crunch

   • Toasted Sesame Seeds: For an extra nutty finish, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top. They provide an extra crunch and enhance the sesame flavor that the salad already has.
   • Crushed Peanuts: If you’re going for a peanut dressing or simply want more texture, crushed peanuts make a great topping.
   • Fried Shallots: Adding crispy fried shallots brings both flavor and texture, offering a salty, crispy element that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.

With these easy variations, you can experiment and make Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad your own, turning it into a personalized dish that suits your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re craving something lighter or looking for a heartier version, there’s no limit to the creative possibilities.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad requires some attention to detail to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients. While salads can often wilt and lose their appeal when stored improperly, there are a few best practices to ensure your leftover noodle salad remains delicious.

1. Separate Dressing and Salad:
   One of the most important steps is to keep the dressing separate from the salad if you plan to store leftovers. The dressing can cause the noodles to become soggy and the vegetables to wilt. Store the noodles, vegetables, and seaweed in one container and the dressing in a small, airtight container. When ready to eat, just toss them together for a fresh taste.

2. Airtight Containers:
   Use airtight containers to store both the salad and the dressing. This prevents air from getting in and helps maintain the salad’s crispness. For the noodles, consider using a container that allows for some air circulation to avoid them becoming too moist and sticking together.

3. Store Noodles Carefully:
   If you’ve made a large batch of noodles, it’s essential to store them properly. Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil or olive oil over the noodles before storing them in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from sticking together and will keep them from drying out.

4. Vegetables and Toppings:
   Some vegetables, like cucumber or lettuce, don’t store well for long periods due to their high water content. To prevent them from becoming too soft, it’s best to store these separately in a paper towel-lined container to absorb excess moisture. Similarly, toppings like sesame seeds or fried shallots should be stored separately to maintain their crispness.

5. Consumption Timeline:
   Ideally, try to consume your leftover salad within 1-2 days. While the noodles and nori can last longer, the fresh vegetables and dressing may not keep their original taste and texture for extended periods. If you’ve added protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, aim to eat the leftovers within 1-2 days for the best flavor and safety.

By following these simple tips, you can store your noodle nori salad effectively and enjoy it again later without sacrificing quality.

What Goes Well With Noodle Nori Salad

Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad can be a fantastic standalone dish, but it can also be served as a vibrant accompaniment to a variety of meals. Whether you’re looking for something light or want to pair it with a more substantial main course, here are some excellent options to serve alongside the salad:

1. Grilled Meats

   • Grilled Chicken: A tender, juicy grilled chicken breast works wonderfully with the crisp freshness of the salad. The savory meat balances the umami flavors in the noodles and nori.
   • Grilled Salmon: The rich, oily flavor of salmon pairs nicely with the light, fresh notes in the salad. You can serve the salmon on top of the salad or on the side for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
   • Beef Skewers: Grilled beef skewers with a bit of char bring a smoky element that complements the tangy and salty aspects of the salad. The meat’s depth pairs well with the fresh crunch of the noodles and vegetables.

2. Asian-Inspired Dishes

   • Tempura Vegetables: The light, crispy nature of tempura vegetables makes them a delightful pairing. Their fried texture contrasts nicely with the soft noodles and seaweed in the salad.
   • Sushi Rolls: A variety of sushi rolls, from simple cucumber rolls to more elaborate ones like spicy tuna or California rolls, can be served alongside the salad to enhance its Asian flavors. The fresh ingredients in sushi complement the fresh crunch of the salad.

3. Light Soup Or Broth

   • Miso Soup: A warm, comforting miso soup with a bit of tofu and seaweed provides a nice contrast to the cold, crisp salad. The umami flavor from the miso enhances the flavor profile of the noodle salad.
   • Clear Vegetable Broth: If you’re looking for something light but still flavorful, a clear vegetable broth works perfectly. The warmth of the broth can balance the chilliness of the salad, making for a well-rounded meal.

4. Vegetarian Options

   • Grilled Tofu: For a vegetarian option, grilled tofu marinated in a soy sauce or teriyaki glaze provides a satisfying, protein-packed accompaniment.
   • Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful stir-fry with seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas can be served alongside the salad for a more filling, plant-based meal.

5. Rice Dishes

   • Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate fragrance of jasmine rice complements the freshness of the noodle salad. You can even drizzle some soy sauce or sesame oil over the rice for a bit of added flavor.
   • Fried Rice: For a heartier side, fried rice with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs can work well, offering a more substantial dish to go with the lighter noodle salad.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is a beautiful, flexible dish that brings together the delicate flavors of noodles, seaweed, and fresh vegetables, all dressed in a zesty, savory sauce. It’s an easy recipe to customize, and with the many variations you can try, it becomes a truly versatile meal option for any occasion. Whether you add protein, experiment with different vegetables, or change the dressing to suit your preferences, the possibilities are endless.

Storing leftovers is simple, and with proper separation of components, you can extend the enjoyment of this dish for another day. And when it comes to pairing the salad with other foods, there are endless options-from grilled meats to lighter soups and sides that harmonize with the salad’s light, fresh flavor.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad is sure to remain a satisfying, delightful meal that pleases both the eye and the palate.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

Mary Berry’s noodle nori salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines noodles, nori (seaweed), and a variety of fresh vegetables, topped with a flavorful dressing. It is a perfect dish for a quick lunch or as a side salad to complement other meals.

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

The ingredients for this salad typically include cooked noodles (such as soba or rice noodles), nori (seaweed), cucumber, carrot, spring onions, sesame seeds, and a dressing made of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey.

Can I Use Any Type Of Noodles For Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

Yes, you can use various types of noodles depending on your preference. Soba noodles, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles work well in this salad. Just make sure they are cooked and cooled before combining them with the other ingredients.

Is The Dressing For Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad Homemade?

Yes, the dressing for this salad is homemade and features a delicious balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a bit of honey for sweetness. You can also add garlic or ginger for an extra kick.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad Gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, you can substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Be sure to choose gluten-free noodles, such as rice noodles, to keep the dish completely gluten-free.

Can I Add Protein To Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

Absolutely!

You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame for extra protein. These additions can make the salad more filling and provide a balanced meal.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

Leftovers of the noodle nori salad should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad can last up to 2 days, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Can I Prepare Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time by cooking the noodles and chopping the vegetables. Keep the noodles, vegetables, and dressing separate, and combine everything just before serving to maintain freshness.

What Are Some Variations I Can Try With Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad?

You can experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers, radishes, or edamame. You can also switch up the dressing by adding chili flakes for heat or a splash of lime juice for extra tang.

Is Mary Berry’s Noodle Nori Salad Suitable For Vegans?

Yes, the salad can easily be made vegan by ensuring the noodles and dressing are plant-based. You can replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave for a fully vegan version.