The Cold Asian Noodle Salad is a refreshing dish that brings bright flavors and vibrant colors to your table. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. It combines fresh vegetables with a creamy peanut dressing, making it satisfying yet light. Plus, it’s ready in less than 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or proteins to customize the dish.
- Flavorful Dressing: The creamy peanut sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the fresh vegetables beautifully.
- Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, perfect for lunch or snacks.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from various vegetables and healthy fats from nuts.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Cold Asian Noodle Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will help you streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Blender or food processor
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Blender or food processor: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy dressing without any lumps.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces regular or whole-wheat spaghetti (283 g)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced) (130 g, approx. 1 cup)
- 2 large carrots (grated) (150 g, approx. 1 heaping cup)
- 1 cup lightly packed green onions (finely chopped) (40 g)
- 1 cup lightly packed cilantro (finely chopped) (40 g)
- 2 cups finely chopped or grated cabbage (300 g; use red, green, or napa cabbage, or a mixture)
- 1 tbsp minced ginger (10 g; omit if you don’t like ginger)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) (about 3 tbsp, 15 g)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter (120 g)
- 1.5 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos/gluten-free tamari)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2.5 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or up to 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (optional, for spicy peanut sauce)
- 2–4 tbsp water to adjust consistency
- Optional toppings: peanuts, cashews, a squeeze of lime juice, fresh chopped cilantro or Thai basil, sriracha
How to Make Cold Asian Noodle Salad
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stovetop. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking:
Chop all the vegetables into small pieces.
Add them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
To create the dressing:
Combine all dressing ingredients in your blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Start with 2 tablespoons of water and add more as needed to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Veggies
Once the pasta has finished cooking:
1. Drain it and rinse under cold water.
2. Return it to the pot and add about three tablespoons of water to coat.
Add the rinsed pasta to the bowl with vegetables.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately topped with optional peanuts or cashews, sriracha, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days without losing flavor!
How to Serve Cold Asian Noodle Salad
Cold Asian Noodle Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Serve Chilled
- Enjoy the salad cold for a refreshing taste. Letting it sit in the fridge for an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Add Protein
- Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost. This addition makes the salad more filling and nutritious.
Include Extra Veggies
- Toss in extra vegetables like snap peas or radishes for added crunch and color. They not only enhance the flavor but also increase the nutrient content.
Garnish Creatively
- Top with sesame seeds or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. This adds texture and visual appeal to your dish.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Serve alongside additional sauces like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. This allows guests to customize their flavor experience.
How to Perfect Cold Asian Noodle Salad
Perfecting your Cold Asian Noodle Salad requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are ways to elevate this tasty dish:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables bring vibrant flavors and crunch. Choose seasonal produce for the best taste.
Balance Flavors: Adjust sweetness and acidity in the dressing to suit your palate. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Cook Noodles Al Dente: Cooking noodles just until firm helps them hold up better in the salad. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
Let It Marinate: Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time enhances flavor absorption.
Best Side Dishes for Cold Asian Noodle Salad
Serving Cold Asian Noodle Salad is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies and shrimp add a light, crisp contrast.
Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides a protein-packed snack that pairs wonderfully.
Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers extra crunch and freshness.
Grilled Veggies: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant add smoky depth that complements the salad’s flavors.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup balances the cold salad nicely while adding umami flavor.
Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar adds brightness and is easy to prepare.
Tofu Skewers: Marinated and grilled tofu skewers provide a satisfying protein option that goes hand-in-hand with Asian flavors.
Sesame Kale Chips: Crunchy kale chips seasoned with sesame offer a delightful snack that enhances your meal’s overall experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Cold Asian Noodle Salad, it’s important to steer clear of some common pitfalls.
- Skipping the Rinse: Not rinsing the noodles after cooking can lead to a sticky texture. Always rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from clumping together.
- Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking pasta for too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely to ensure a perfect al dente bite.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin your dish. Always opt for fresh, vibrant veggies for the best flavor and crunch.
- Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your dressing is too thick or too thin, it won’t coat the salad well. Start with less water when blending and adjust until you find that perfect creamy consistency.
- Forgetting Optional Toppings: Skipping garnishes like peanuts or cilantro means missing out on added flavor and texture. Don’t forget those final touches!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing Cold Asian Noodle Salad
- It’s best not to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients, but if needed, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cold Asian Noodle Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread noodles on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for peanut butter in Cold Asian Noodle Salad?
You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives. These provide similar creaminess without peanuts.
Can I add protein to my Cold Asian Noodle Salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions that enhance both taste and nutrition.
How do I make Cold Asian Noodle Salad gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all sauces, like soy sauce, are gluten-free options.
How can I customize my Cold Asian Noodle Salad?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as cucumbers or snap peas. You can also adjust spices according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cold Asian Noodle Salad is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any meal. With its refreshing flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy making it your own!
Cold Asian Noodle Salad
Cold Asian Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm days, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. This salad combines fresh vegetables with a creamy peanut dressing, creating a satisfying yet light meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! With its colorful ingredients and delicious flavors, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and quick recipe. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling/Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 10 ounces spaghetti (regular or whole-wheat)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 2 large carrots (grated)
- 1 cup green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cilantro (finely chopped)
- 2 cups cabbage (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1.5 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced red bell pepper, grated carrots, green onions, cilantro, and cabbage.
- In a blender, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, lime juice, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency if necessary.
- Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over everything and toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about an hour to let the flavors meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
