Forget the oven, this cold noodle salad is your ticket to a refreshing, flavorful meal that’s perfect for those hot summer days. Packed with a spicy peanut sauce that’s to die for, this dish is a game-changer for your picnic or potluck lineup.
Why This Recipe Works
- The spicy peanut sauce is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making every bite irresistible.
- Cold noodles are incredibly refreshing, especially when paired with crisp vegetables for that extra crunch.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste or what you have in your fridge.
- It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or a fuss-free dinner.
- The combination of textures and flavors ensures that this dish is anything but boring.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles – cooked according to package instructions and cooled
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha – adjust to taste
- 1 clove garlic – minced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup water – to thin the sauce
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped peanuts – for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Colander
Instructions
Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Let them drain thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Tip: Tossing the noodles with a little sesame oil can prevent them from sticking together.
Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, sriracha, minced garlic, and lime juice until smooth. Gradually add water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but pourable. Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning or heat level to your preference.
Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooled noodles to the bowl with the peanut sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the noodles until they are evenly coated with the sauce. This ensures every strand is flavorful.
Add the Vegetables
Fold in the shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and chopped cilantro into the noodle mixture. The vegetables add a fresh crunch and color to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped peanuts for an extra crunch. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together even more. Tip: For an extra kick, drizzle a little more sriracha on top before serving.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their cold noodle salad, consider these advanced tips. First, toasting the peanuts before chopping them for garnish adds a deeper flavor. Second, if you’re meal prepping, keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the noodles from absorbing all the sauce and becoming too soft. Third, for a protein boost, add grilled chicken or tofu. The key is to experiment and make the recipe your own.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the rice noodles for soba noodles or whole wheat spaghetti for a different texture.
- Add a protein like shrimp, chicken, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
- For a vegetarian version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
- Incorporate different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of sriracha or adding chili flakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Just keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture. The flavors actually improve as they meld together in the fridge.
Is there a substitute for peanut butter?
Yes, if you’re allergic to peanuts or just not a fan, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the salad will last up to 3 days. However, the noodles may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two.
Summary
This cold noodle salad with spicy peanut sauce is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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