Peanut Noodle Salad
This Peanut Noodle Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish featuring tender noodles tossed in a creamy, savory peanut sauce, along with crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a light lunch, meal prep, or as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals. This salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it great for warm-weather meals!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz rice noodles, soba noodles, or spaghetti
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ cup cucumber, julienned
¼ cup red cabbage, shredded (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro or Thai basil, chopped
¼ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Peanut Dressing:
¼ cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon sriracha or chili flakes (optional, for spice)
2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
2. Make the Peanut Dressing:
1. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and sriracha.
2. Add warm water 1 tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
3. Assemble the Salad:
1. In a large bowl, toss the noodles with the carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, red cabbage, and green onions.
2. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Garnish & Serve:
1. Top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.
2. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for more flavor.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~350
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients.)
Notes & Tips:
Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame for extra protein.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and Tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed roasted cashews or crispy wontons.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
This Peanut Noodle Salad is quick, delicious, and full of bold flavors!