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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 200g noodles (spaghetti, soba, or rice noodles)
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the julienned carrot, cucumber, red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked noodles to the large bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it a final toss.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
For a fun twist, try adding shredded chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. If you prefer a nutty flavor, garnish with crushed peanuts. You can also swap honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan option. This salad pairs wonderfully with a side of hot soup or steamed dumplings, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Sesame Noodle Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find rice noodles or soba, spaghetti or any thin pasta works well. Tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Pairings
This refreshing Sesame Noodle Salad pairs beautifully with a cup of green tea or a light white wine like a Pinot Grigio. For a heartier meal, serve alongside sautéed greens or miso soup.
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