Mediterranean-Friendly Chili Crisp Cucumber Soba Noodle Salad
A light, refreshing noodle salad made with soba noodles, crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, herbs, and a Mediterranean-style chili crisp dressing. It’s perfect as a cold lunch or a vibrant side — flavorful, healthy, and ready in under 25 minutes.
⏱ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
180 g soba noodles (buckwheat noodles)
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced (use a mandoline if possible)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or chopped pistachios (for crunch)
2 tbsp fresh mint or parsley, chopped
For the Mediterranean Chili Crisp Dressing
(Mild and aromatic rather than spicy — adjust heat to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chili crisp (choose a mild version or reduce flakes for less spice)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp rice vinegar or white wine vinegar
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp soy sauce or tamari
½ tsp garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove
Salt & pepper to taste
Instruction
1. Cook the noodles:
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add soba noodles, and cook for 5–6 minutes (until just tender). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili crisp, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and garlic. Taste and adjust salt or heat level.
3. Combine salad ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and herbs.
4. Add noodles and dressing:
Add cooled soba noodles to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over and toss until evenly coated.
5. Top and serve:
Sprinkle with feta and sesame seeds (or pistachios). Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes before serving for a refreshing cold salad.
Tips & Variations
Make it non-spicy: Use olive oil + crispy shallots instead of chili crisp.
Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
Extra Mediterranean flair: Add olives, roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of tahini.
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days; perfect for meal prep.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 5 g