This Peanut Noodle Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, and spicy notes. With tender noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a luscious peanut sauce, it’s a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Ideal as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is both versatile and satisfying. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights. Customize the salad with your favorite protein for an extra boost, and you’ll have a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 225 g) rice noodles or spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1–2 tbsp water (to thin, as needed)
- Optional: 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes for heat
Optional Add-ins:
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu
- Edamame or steamed broccoli
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Make the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, lime juice, and sriracha (if using). Add water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, chop and prepare the vegetables. Arrange them in a large mixing bowl.
- Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions, cilantro, and roasted peanuts. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.
- Optional Add-ins: If desired, top with your choice of protein or extra veggies for a heartier meal.
This salad pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a refreshing iced tea for a perfectly balanced meal.
