Cold Sesame Noodle Salad (Print Version)

Chilled noodles, crisp veggies, and sesame-soy dressing blend for a vibrant, refreshing Asian-inspired salad.

# Ingredients:

→ Noodles

01 - 250 g dried wheat noodles or spaghetti
02 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup julienned carrots
04 - 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
05 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
06 - 2 spring onions, sliced
07 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

→ Sesame-Soy Dressing

08 - 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
09 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce
10 - 1.5 tablespoons rice vinegar
11 - 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter or tahini
12 - 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
13 - 1 clove garlic, minced
14 - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
15 - 0.5 to 1 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil

→ Garnish

16 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
17 - Extra spring onions and cilantro, as desired

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the dried noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water until chilled. Toss noodles with 1 teaspoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.
02 - While noodles cool, julienne the carrots, and thinly slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and spring onions. Chop cilantro if using.
03 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter or tahini, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, ginger, and chili flakes or chili oil until smooth and emulsified.
04 - In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, prepared vegetables, and dressing. Toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer salad to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and additional spring onions and cilantro as desired.
06 - Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For protein variation, add shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame beans.
02 - Use rice noodles and tamari for a gluten-free salad.
03 - Adjust chili amount or omit for a milder taste.
04 - Pairs especially well with chilled white wine or a light lager.

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