Asian Noodle Salad
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling: 30 minutes)
Description
Asian Noodle Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish made with tender noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sesame dressing. It’s light, colorful, and perfect as a quick meal or side dish, with a balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Salad
- 8 oz spaghetti or Asian noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup roasted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Dressing
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
While the noodles are cooling, slice the bell pepper, cucumber, and green onions. Shred the carrots if not already prepared and chop the fresh cilantro. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
Add the cooled noodles to the bowl with vegetables and pour the dressing over everything. Toss well until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated and combined.
Top with roasted peanuts and sesame seeds, giving the salad a final toss. Chill for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend, or serve immediately if preferred.
Notes
- Rinse noodles in cold water to prevent clumping.
- Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and flavor.
- Adjust dressing to taste depending on sweetness or saltiness preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6 servings
- Calories: 320 per serving
Variations
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- Use peanut butter in the dressing for a creamy version
- Swap noodles with rice noodles or soba
- Add cabbage or snap peas for more crunch
- Make it spicy with chili flakes or sriracha
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish
- Pair with grilled meats or seafood
- Enjoy as a light lunch on its own
- Add extra lime juice before serving for brightness
- Garnish with extra herbs for freshness
Tips
- Toss salad again before serving as dressing settles
- Chill for deeper flavor development
- Do not overdress, add gradually if needed
- Use toasted sesame oil for stronger flavor
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serving Size
Serves: 4–6 servings
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 320 per serving
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead or even the day before. The flavors improve as it sits, but you may need to toss it again before serving.
What noodles work best?
Spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba noodles all work well depending on your preference.
How do I keep noodles from sticking?
Rinse them under cold water after cooking and toss lightly with a bit of oil if needed.