This Cold Peanut Noodle Salad is a delightful blend of taste and sensation. It combines the nutty richness of peanut butter with the freshness of vegetables and the satisfying chewiness of noodles. What sets this recipe apart is the harmonious blend of ingredients: tender noodles, crisp veggies, and a zesty peanut dressing. The star of the show is undoubtedly the peanut sauce, which infuses every bite with a creamy, umami goodness. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, this salad is a winner. So, let’s dive in and create something delicious together!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 225 g) linguine noodles (or any other thin noodles)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (coriander leaves)
- Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions:
- Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the linguine noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Set aside.
- Prepare the Peanut Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add water gradually until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, red bell pepper, snow peas, scallions, and cilantro.
- Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve it cold, garnished with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
How to Serve: This Cold Peanut Noodle Salad is perfect as a standalone meal or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches. Enjoy it with chopsticks or a fork, and savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg