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Cold Sesame Peanut Noodle Salad

Cold sesame peanut noodle salad with creamy glossy sauce and fresh garnishes.

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A vibrant, no-cook dinner that is both satisfying and fresh. This salad combines simple ingredients with a bold, creamy peanut sauce for a meal that is ready in about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

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  • 8 oz spaghetti, linguine, or soba noodles
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1-3 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce
  • 2-4 tablespoons warm water, to thin

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking.
  2. While noodles cook, make the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and sriracha until smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled noodles, carrot, bell pepper, cabbage, and most of the green onions and cilantro.
  5. Pour the sauce over the noodle mixture. Using tongs or two large spoons, toss everything together until evenly coated.
  6. Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Toss once more, then transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with remaining green onions, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

For best texture, cook noodles al dente and rinse with cold water. The salad tastes even better the next day and is perfect for meal prep. For a gluten-free version, use tamari and 100% buckwheat soba noodles.

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