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Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

A refreshing and flavor-packed cold noodle salad tossed in a creamy sesame sauce with crisp vegetables. Perfect for warm days, quick lunches, and easy meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
  • 3 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter or tahini
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup sliced cucumber
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • chopped cilantro (optional)

Equipment

  • large pot for cooking noodles
  • colander for draining noodles
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook the noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, ginger, and garlic until smooth.
  3. Place the cooled noodles in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add shredded carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, and green onions.
  5. Pour the sesame sauce over the noodles and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Sprinkle sesame seeds and optional cilantro on top.
  7. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Rinse noodles thoroughly to prevent sticking. Thin the sauce with warm water if needed. Best served chilled after at least 15 minutes. Customize with protein like chicken, tofu, or shrimp, and adjust sweetness or spice to taste.