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Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

Cold sesame noodle salad with creamy peanut sauce and fresh colorful vegetables.

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This vibrant, budget-friendly meal is a complete, comforting dish that comes together faster than delivery. It features a creamy, nutty sauce with a kick, clinging to chewy noodles and fresh crunchy vegetables.

Ingredients

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  • 12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or soba noodles
  • 2 cups shredded red or green cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter or tahini
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce
  • 1/4 cup warm water

Instructions

  1. Cook noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Toss with a tiny drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and sriracha.
  3. Slowly whisk in the warm water until the sauce is smooth and pourable. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, cabbage, carrot, and most of the green onions and cilantro.
  5. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Let the salad rest for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Toss again, garnish with remaining herbs and sesame seeds, then serve.

Notes

For best flavor, let salad rest before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The noodles may absorb sauce; revive with a splash of warm water or a little extra soy sauce and vinegar. For gluten-free, use 100% buckwheat soba or rice noodles.

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