Vietnamese Beef Salad Recipe – High Protein & Gluten-Free

Vietnamese Beef Salad is a high-protein, gluten-free dish combining grilled hanger steak with fresh herbs, watercress, and a tangy fish sauce salad dressing. This Southeast Asian salad offers bold, balanced flavors while aligning with weight loss and carnivore diet goals. Variations like Nigel Slater’s beef salad and Thai salad recipes inspire this healthy beef salad recipe, which is low in fat and rich in flavor.

Made with grilled Vietnamese steak, cilantro and mint, lime juice, and makrut lime leaves, this Asian steak salad is naturally gluten-free and perfect for anyone following a carnivore or high-protein lifestyle. Its vibrant flavor, satisfying texture, and refreshing crunch make it a standout among healthy weight loss recipes.

How to Make Vietnamese Beef Salad: Slice grilled hanger steak thinly, toss with mint, cilantro, watercress, and pour over a sweet chili dressing infused with lime and fish sauce. Serve chilled for a light yet filling meal.

How to Make Vietnamese Beef Salad at Home

If you’re craving a vibrant dish that checks all the boxes, low-fat, high protein, gluten-free, and bursting with Southeast Asian flavor, Vietnamese Beef Salad is your perfect match. Whether you’re following a carnivore diet or just exploring nutritious, bold-tasting meals, this salad delivers both freshness and substance. Inspired by iconic recipes like Nigel Slater’s grilled steak salad and infused with authentic Vietnamese touches, it’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying.

While it draws on elements from Thai salad recipes and other Southeast Asian creations, Vietnamese Beef Salad has its own identity: delicate ribbons of grilled hanger steak, crisp watercress, zesty makrut lime leaves, and a punchy fish sauce salad dressing that ties everything together. The interplay of mint and cilantro not only brings brightness but also boosts the salad’s nutritional value, making it an ideal choice for those focused on weight loss or high-protein eating.

Before we walk through each step of preparation, let’s explore what makes this salad a standout for healthy eating, and how you can tailor it to your own lifestyle, whether that means going carnivore, gluten-free, or simply aiming for flavor-packed nutrition with every forkful.

Vietnamese Beef Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A vibrant grilled Vietnamese beef salad with marinated hanger steak, fresh watercress, mint, and cilantro, drizzled in a tangy fish sauce salad dressing. A high-protein, low-fat, gluten-free Southeast Asian favorite perfect for weight loss and carnivore-friendly variations.

• Author: Marla Jennings
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Cook Time: 8 min (grilling + resting)
• Total Time: 53 min–4 h 23 min
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad, Main Course
• Method: Marinate, Grill, Toss
• Cuisine: Vietnamese, Southeast Asian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • 1.5 lb hanger steak

• • 3 Tbsp fish sauce

• • 2 Tbsp lime juice

• • 1 Tbsp sweet chili dressing

• • 1 tsp coconut sugar

• • 2 cloves garlic, minced

• • 2 makrut lime leaves, finely shredded

• • 4 cups watercress

• • ½ cup cilantro, chopped

• • ½ cup mint leaves, torn

• • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• • ½ cup shredded carrot

• • Optional: 2 Tbsp crushed peanuts

• • Lime wedges, for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1- Marinate hanger steak
Trim steak and whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sweet chili dressing, coconut sugar, garlic, and shredded makrut lime leaves. Marinate steak in a ceramic dish, covered, for 30 min to 4 h.

---

2- Grill steak to perfection
Heat grill pan to medium-high. Grill steak 3–4 min per side for medium-rare. Rest 5–10 min before slicing thinly against the grain.

---

3- Prepare the herb salad
In a large bowl, combine watercress, cilantro, mint, red onion, and shredded carrot. Toss gently.

 

---

4- Make the fish sauce salad dressing
Whisk fish sauce, lime juice, sweet chili dressing, garlic, coconut sugar, and makrut lime leaves until balanced in sweet, sour, salty, and heat.

 

---

5- Assemble the salad
Layer sliced steak over the herb mixture. Drizzle dressing and toss lightly. Garnish with mint sprigs, crushed peanuts, and lime wedge.

 

Notes

• • Marinate longer for deeper flavor.

• • Make gluten-free: use tamari, certified GF fish sauce.

• • Carnivore adaptation: omit herbs/veg, use steak + dressing only.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: ~1 plate (approx. 1⅓ the batch)
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg

Ingredients Breakdown for Grilled Vietnamese Beef Salad

To create an unforgettable Vietnamese Beef Salad, it’s not just about flavor, it’s about selecting ingredients that elevate nutrition, texture, and authenticity. Each element plays a key role in balancing this gluten-free Vietnamese salad with Southeast Asian flair and modern dietary flexibility.

Hanger Steak: High Protein, Bold Flavor

At the heart of this grilled Vietnamese beef salad is hanger steak, prized for its rich texture and deep flavor. It’s the same cut featured in Nigel Slater’s beef salad, making it ideal for grilling and slicing thin against the grain. This protein-packed option aligns beautifully with carnivore diet preferences and provides a satisfying bite for steak lovers.

• Other beef options: Skirt steak or flank steak can also be used.
  
• Why hanger steak: It holds marinades well and grills quickly, making it the top choice for a Vietnamese recipe with hanger steak.
  

Watercress, Cilantro & Mint: Freshness with Benefits

No Vietnamese steak salad is complete without a cascade of vibrant greens and herbs. Watercress adds peppery depth, while mint and cilantro offer signature fragrance and freshness. These aren’t just flavor boosters, they support digestion, add antioxidants, and contribute to a low-fat Asian salad profile.

• Herb combo: A cilantro and mint salad base gives a refreshing lift that complements the warmth of grilled beef.

Southeast Asian Essentials: Flavor Carriers

The signature zing in this beef salad with mint and cilantro comes from its dressing, anchored by ingredients like fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and a touch of sweet chili dressing. For those who love Thai salad recipes, the overlap of ingredients like makrut lime leaves and chilies will feel familiar yet distinctly Vietnamese in execution.

• Fish sauce salad dressing: Umami-rich and salt-forward, balanced with lime and sweet notes.
  
• Makrut lime leaves: Add a citrusy backbone.
  
• Sweet chili dressing: Offers gentle heat and sweetness.

This combination results in a flavor-packed dish that feels indulgent but remains light, perfect for anyone looking for a healthy beef salad recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or dietary goals.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Vietnamese Beef Salad isn’t just a flavorful experience, it’s a powerhouse of nutritional value designed for those seeking a high-protein, low-fat, and gluten-free option. Every component, from the hanger steak to the fish sauce dressing, contributes to a dish that fits seamlessly into weight loss recipes and healthy lifestyle plans.

High Protein & Carnivore Diet Friendly

Thanks to the use of hanger steak, this Vietnamese steak salad is naturally rich in protein, supporting muscle health and satiety. For those following a carnivore diet or prioritizing protein, the beef base makes it a satisfying main course without the need for grains or added sugars. (Healthline outlines the nutrition profile of beef, noting its high protein content and essential vitamins.)

• Protein content: Ideal for post-workout meals or high-energy diets.
  
• Carnivore adaptable: Skip the greens or dressing and serve steak with mint and lime juice alone.

Low-Fat and Gluten-Free Salad

Despite its richness in flavor, this salad remains a low-fat Asian salad option, particularly when lean cuts of beef are chosen and dressing portions are controlled. Plus, it’s entirely gluten-free when prepared with tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

• Great for gluten-sensitive diets: No noodles or wheat-based sauces.
  
• Naturally dairy-free: Perfect for paleo and Southeast Asian salad purists.

Ideal for Weight Loss

Each ingredient in this healthy beef salad recipe is selected to keep you full and energized without excess calories. Herbs like mint and cilantro aid digestion, while the sweet chili dressing provides enough flavor to make healthy eating exciting.

If you’re building a collection of low-calorie, flavorful meals, check out our Healthy Weight Loss Recipes Guide for 2025.

Vietnamese Beef Salad isn’t just a meal, it’s a smart, nutrient-dense choice that supports your body while satisfying your taste buds.

Sauces & Dressing Comparisons

One of the most compelling features of Vietnamese Beef Salad is its bold, tangy dressing. This sauce isn’t just a garnish, it’s the lifeblood of flavor in the dish, tying together savory hanger steak and fragrant herbs. Let’s break down the essential components and see how it compares to other regional dressings.

Fish Sauce Salad Dressing: Umami-First

At the core of Vietnamese cuisine, fish sauce is deeply savory, salty, and full of umami. In this salad, it’s balanced with lime juice for acidity, a touch of coconut sugar for sweetness, and chilies for heat.

• Common ingredients: Fish sauce, lime juice, sweetener, garlic, and chili.
  
• Why it works: It penetrates the beef and mingles perfectly with fresh herbs like mint and cilantro.

Sweet Chili Dressing: Sweet Heat

Often seen in fusion Vietnamese steak salad recipes, sweet chili dressing adds a mild heat and glossy finish. Though less traditional than nuoc cham, it’s loved for its ease and gentle flavor profile.

• Use it when: You want a slightly sweeter, more approachable taste for guests new to Southeast Asian salad flavors.
  
• Nutrition note: Use low-sugar or homemade versions to keep it weight loss–friendly.

Makrut Lime Leaf Dressing: Zesty & Fragrant

An advanced twist includes finely chopped makrut lime leaves, lending a floral citrus note often found in Thai salad recipes. While less common in Vietnamese salads, it gives the dressing a complex aroma without adding calories.

• Pair with: Lean hanger steak or grilled tofu (if adapting away from carnivore).
  
• Make it pop: Blend with a touch of lemongrass or ginger for more dimension.

Dressing Tips for Every Diet

Whether you’re aiming for a low-fat Asian salad or a carnivore-friendly marinade, adjusting the ratio of ingredients lets you tailor the flavor without straying from your goals.

• Carnivore variation: Use fish sauce and lime juice alone over steak.
  
• Gluten-free: Avoid soy sauce, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.

Thai vs Vietnamese Beef Salad: What’s the Difference?

At a glance, Thai and Vietnamese beef salads might seem similar, they both showcase grilled beef, fresh herbs, and zesty dressings. But a closer look reveals distinct differences in flavor, technique, and cultural influence.

Herb & Ingredient Profiles

Vietnamese beef salad prioritizes balance: sweet, sour, salty, and umami, all in equal measure. The use of watercress, mint, cilantro, and makrut lime leaves (optional) gives it an herbaceous punch without overwhelming the palate.

• Vietnamese staple: Nuoc cham (fish sauce with lime and sugar)
  
• Typical herbs: Mint, cilantro, sometimes Thai basil
  
• Vegetables: Often includes carrots, onions, and watercress

Thai salad recipes, specifically those from the Isan region, bring heat to the forefront. Lime juice, bird’s eye chilies, and roasted rice powder are common, with slightly fewer leafy greens.

• Thai staple: Spicy lime dressing with fish sauce, often sharper and hotter
  
• Typical herbs: Lemongrass, mint, sawtooth coriander
  
• Vegetables: More often use green beans, tomatoes, and shallots

Steak Preparation & Presentation

Both cultures favor quick-grilled, tender beef, often served slightly warm over cool vegetables. However, Vietnamese steak salad focuses on slicing beef thinly to soak in dressing, while Thai beef salads may toss the meat in the sauce first for a punchier taste.

• Vietnamese approach: Layer steak over salad for contrast
  
• Thai approach: Toss steak in dressing first, then plate

Nutritional Style

Vietnamese beef salad leans more toward balance and freshness, making it ideal as a healthy beef salad recipe for weight loss or gluten-free needs. Thai salads often spike the heat and sourness, favoring intensity.

If you’re seeking a low-fat Asian salad with high protein and fewer processed elements, Vietnamese-style is the more versatile choice.

Carnivore & Gluten-Free Adaptations

Vietnamese Beef Salad is naturally adaptable, making it a smart choice for anyone following specific dietary lifestyles like the carnivore diet or gluten-free nutrition. Let’s explore how you can tweak this Southeast Asian salad without losing its core flavor.

Carnivore Diet Adjustments

For those on a carnivore diet, the focus is protein, typically from red meat, while limiting or excluding plant-based ingredients. This salad is an easy fit:

• Keep: Grilled hanger steak, fish sauce, lime juice
  
• Omit: Watercress, mint, cilantro, onions, and carrots
  
• Suggested version: Serve grilled steak slices drizzled with lime-fish sauce mix. Optionally, add shredded makrut lime leaf or chili oil if tolerated.

This version still honors the soul of the Vietnamese recipe with hanger steak, while staying within carnivore guidelines.

Gluten-Free Modifications

Vietnamese steak salad is already mostly gluten-free, but be cautious with hidden sources like soy sauce or processed dressings:

• Substitute: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce
  
• Check labels: Ensure fish sauce is gluten-free (some cheaper versions may contain wheat)
  
• Safe add-ins: Crushed peanuts, makrut lime leaves, and sweet chili dressing (if labeled GF)

This gluten-free Vietnamese salad version pairs beautifully with your weight loss goals, offering vibrant taste and lean nutrition.

Bonus Adaptation: High Protein, Low Carb

You can also increase the salad’s protein load while keeping carbs minimal:

• Add extra grilled steak or top with a sliced hard-boiled egg
  
• Replace sweet chili dressing with lime juice and fish sauce only
  
• Serve over extra watercress or a mix of spinach and mint

Looking for other creative high-protein, diet-friendly meal ideas? Don’t miss our Big Mac Salad Recipe – Keto & Low Carb and Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet.

FAQ About Vietnamese Beef Salad

Conclusion

Vietnamese Beef Salad brings together vibrant Southeast Asian flavors with wholesome nutrition, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking a high-protein, low-fat, and gluten-free meal. Whether you’re following a carnivore diet, watching your weight, or simply craving bold flavors, this grilled hanger steak salad delivers in every bite. From the zesty fish sauce salad dressing to the cooling herbs like mint and cilantro, each element is thoughtfully layered for maximum taste and health benefits.

If you’re on the hunt for more clean, crave-worthy recipes that support your wellness goals, check out our Juicy Korean-Style Steak Recipe or try our nourishing Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup.Ready to explore more vibrant, health-forward meals? Follow Viva Lyze on Facebook for new recipe ideas daily, and discover beautifully curated wellness bites on Viva Lyze on Pinterest.