Cilantro Lime Noodles Recipe
Description:
Cilantro Lime Noodles are bright, zesty, and refreshingly aromatic. This dish combines tender noodles tossed in a vibrant green sauce made from fresh cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of chili. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or served with grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. It’s quick, healthy, and loaded with flavor.
Total Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients:
For the noodles:
200g (7 oz) rice noodles or spaghetti
Salt, for boiling water
For the cilantro lime sauce:
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed
1 tsp lime zest
2 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
1 green chili (optional, adjust to taste)
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
2 tbsp water (to thin out, as needed)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional toppings:
Toasted sesame seeds
Chopped scallions
Crushed peanuts or cashews
Grilled tofu or shrimp
Instructions:
Cook the noodles:
Boil noodles in salted water according to package instructions.
Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Make the sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, zest, garlic, chili, olive oil, honey/maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Blend until smooth. Add water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Toss and serve:
Place cooked noodles in a bowl. Pour the sauce over and toss until well coated.
Taste and adjust salt/lime as needed.
Garnish with your choice of toppings and serve warm or chilled.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Based on 3 servings, using rice noodles and olive oil
Calories: ~310 kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: ~200mg
Vitamin C: 30% DV
Iron: 10% DV
Add more protein by topping with grilled tofu, edamame, or shrimp.
FAQ – Cilantro Lime Noodles
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! These noodles can be served cold or at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: What kind of noodles work best?
A: Rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti work great. Use gluten-free noodles if needed.
Q: Can I make this oil-free?
A: Yes. You can substitute the olive oil with a bit more lime juice or water, though it will slightly change the flavor.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, or steamed broccoli pair wonderfully.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: It depends on the chili. You can skip it or use a mild green chili for flavor without too much heat.