So many people requested for this recipe on IG after yesterdays video

So many people requested for this recipe on IG after yesterdays video is a easy Vietnamese recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 27 min

Cost: $3.28 total, $0.82 per serving

Ingredients

  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni (short pasta shape, uncooked)
  • 1/2 cup Onion (white or yellow, finely diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup Carrot (peeled and grated)
  • 1/2 cup Vietnamese Milk Mayonnaise (sweetened mayo common in Vietnamese cuisine)
  • 2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (raw, unfiltered if possible)
  • 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/4 tsp Salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook 8‑10 minutes until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: boiling

  2. Prepare the Vegetables

    While the pasta cooks, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the carrot on the fine side of the box grater.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Make the Dressing

    In a small bowl whisk together the Vietnamese milk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt until smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Combine Salad

    In a large mixing bowl add the cooled pasta, diced onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot. Pour the dressing over and toss until everything is evenly coated.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Chill Before Serving

    Transfer the salad to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
6 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Eggs (mayonnaise), Milk (Vietnamese milk mayo), Wheat (gluten in pasta)

Last updated: April 14, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

So many people requested for this recipe on IG after yesterdays video

Recipe by Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie

A quick, creamy Vietnamese-inspired mac salad made with short pasta, diced onion, garlic, grated carrots, sweet Vietnamese milk mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Perfect as a refreshing side for summer meals or potlucks.

EasyVietnameseServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
15m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.28
Total cost
$0.82
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water.
  • Ensure pasta is completely cooled before mixing with the mayo dressing.
  • Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning before combining.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle boiling water with care to avoid burns.
  • Use a stable cutting board and keep fingertips tucked when chopping.
  • Wash hands after handling raw garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad in Vietnamese cuisine?

A

Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad reflects the fusion of Western pasta with Vietnamese flavors, especially the sweet, creamy Vietnamese milk mayonnaise that became popular during French colonial influence. It is often served at family gatherings, picnics, and as a refreshing side during hot weather.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of mac salad in Vietnam?

A

In southern Vietnam, the salad may include pickled carrots and daikon, while northern versions often add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro. Some regions substitute the sweet milk mayo with a lighter fish sauce‑based dressing for a tangier profile.

cultural
Q

How is Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad traditionally served in Vietnam?

A

It is typically served chilled as a side dish alongside grilled meats, bánh mì, or at festive meals. The salad is presented in a shallow bowl or platter, allowing diners to scoop it onto plates with rice or noodles.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad traditionally associated with in Vietnamese culture?

A

The dish appears at family reunions, Lunar New Year (Tết) celebrations, and outdoor picnics because it can be prepared ahead and stays tasty when served cold.

cultural
Q

What makes Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad special or unique in Vietnamese cuisine?

A

Its uniqueness lies in the sweet, milky mayonnaise that blends Western condiments with local taste preferences, creating a creamy yet tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and al‑dente pasta.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad?

A

Common errors include overcooking the pasta, not cooling it before adding the dressing, and under‑seasoning the mayo mixture. Over‑mixing can also break the pasta, leading to a mushy texture.

technical
Q

Why does this Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad recipe use Vietnamese milk mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise?

A

Vietnamese milk mayo adds a subtle sweetness and richer mouthfeel that balances the acidity of the vinegar, creating the signature flavor profile of the dish that regular mayo alone cannot achieve.

technical
Q

Can I make Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and cooked pasta up to a day ahead. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator, then combine and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad?

A

The pasta should be firm to the bite, the vegetables crisp, and the dressing should coat each piece with a glossy, creamy sheen without pooling at the bottom.

technical
Q

How do I know when Vietnamese‑Style Mac Salad is done cooking?

A

The salad is finished once the pasta is al dente, the vegetables are diced or grated, and the dressing has been fully incorporated. A quick taste test for seasoning confirms it’s ready.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie specializes in approachable Asian-inspired home cooking, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques and often featuring quick, budget‑friendly recipes.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Alissa Nguyen formerly Gaming Foodie's approach to Vietnamese cooking differ from other Vietnamese cooking channels?

A

Alissa Nguyen brings a playful, gamer‑culture aesthetic and focuses on simplifying classic Vietnamese dishes for busy home cooks, often using readily available supermarket ingredients while still honoring authentic flavor profiles.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey Butter Chicken Alfredo Pasta 60g Protein 🍗🍯🧀
7

MOST DELICIOUS High Protein Honey Butter Chicken Alfredo Pasta 60g Protein 🍗🍯🧀

A creamy, high‑protein honey‑butter chicken Alfredo pasta that packs about 630 calories per serving. Easy to make, perfect for meal‑prepping, and loaded with flavor from garlic, sun‑dried tomatoes, and Parmesan.

42 minServes 4$46
Italian‑American
Zucchini ist schmackhafter als Fleisch, niemand glaubt, dass ich sie so einfach und lecker zubereite
3

Zucchini ist schmackhafter als Fleisch, niemand glaubt, dass ich sie so einfach und lecker zubereite

A German‑inspired side dish of golden, breadcrumb‑coated zucchini sticks served with a cool garlic‑yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick summer snack or a tasty accompaniment to any main.

1 hr 15 minServes 3$6
German
How to make this Baked Feta Pasta! 🍝
2

How to make this Baked Feta Pasta! 🍝

A viral Mediterranean‑inspired one‑pan pasta where cherry tomatoes, garlic, and herbs roast with a block of feta, then combine with al dente fusilli for a creamy, salty‑sweet sauce. Ready in just over an hour, this easy‑peasy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

1 hr 15 minServes 2$10
Mediterranean
Viral Tiktok Baked Feta Pasta Recipe
4

Viral Tiktok Baked Feta Pasta Recipe

A quick and creamy baked feta pasta inspired by the viral TikTok trend. Cherry tomatoes, feta, garlic, and fresh basil come together in the oven, then tossed with your favorite pasta for a delicious dinner in under 90 minutes.

1 hr 17 minServes 4$9
Mediterranean
Here is the recipe for how I made my Mini Onion Boil.
13

Here is the recipe for how I made my Mini Onion Boil.

A simple yet flavorful side dish of frozen pearl onions baked in a buttery, seasoned sauce. The onions become tender and caramelized under a broiler, finished with fresh parsley. Perfect for a casual dinner or a party appetizer.

1 hr 10 minServes 4$18
American
Learn How To Make The Most Flavorful Chicken Alfredo In Less Than 30 Minutes
7

Learn How To Make The Most Flavorful Chicken Alfredo In Less Than 30 Minutes

A creamy, restaurant‑style Chicken Alfredo made from scratch with juicy seasoned chicken breasts, a rich butter‑cream‑Parmesan sauce, and fettuccine noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal‑prep.

70 minServes 2$18
Italian
Stuffed Pasta Chips
2

Stuffed Pasta Chips

Crispy air‑fried jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory walnut “meat” blend, onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, and melted mozzarella. The shells are golden on the outside and soft inside, offering a satisfying plant‑based protein twist on the viral pasta chips trend.

50 minServes 4$25
Italian‑American
30 minute One Pan Lemon Chicken Pasta (creamy)
3

30 minute One Pan Lemon Chicken Pasta (creamy)

A quick, lazy‑day dinner that comes together in one skillet in under 30 minutes. Tender chicken breast, garlic‑infused pasta, a silky lemon‑cream sauce, and Parmesan make a bright, comforting meal with only five core ingredients.

30 minServes 2$11
Italian