Cold Sesame Noodle Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as a light meal. This dish features tender noodles tossed in a creamy sesame dressing, packed with savory umami and a hint of sweetness. Crisp vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers add vibrant colors and textures, while fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor. Topped with crunchy sesame seeds and peanuts, this salad offers a satisfying combination of tastes and textures. Easy to prepare and versatile, Cold Sesame Noodle Salad can be served as a side dish or a standalone meal, making it a delightful addition to any table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of noodles (such as soba, spaghetti, or rice noodles)
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
For the Sesame Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini or smooth peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing as needed)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the sesame dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until smooth. Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
- Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, and green onions. Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss until the noodles and vegetables are well coated.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salad to serving plates and garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and toasted sesame seeds. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your Cold Sesame Noodle Salad as a deliciously light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and nutty flavors.
