This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings the perfect blend of flavors and textures to your table. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or lunch, this salad features vibrant vegetables tossed in a creamy peanut dressing. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that stands out with its colorful presentation and delicious taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 27 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Flavorful Dressing: The spicy peanut dressing adds a rich and creamy texture that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize the salad with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious side dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing, you’ll need a few essential tools to make your cooking experience seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Mandolin slicer (optional)
- Measuring spoons
- Pot for boiling noodles
Importance of Each Tool
- Large salad bowl: Perfect for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
- Mandolin slicer: Helps achieve perfectly thin vegetable slices, enhancing the salad’s texture.
Ingredients
This Asian Noodle Salad has an exciting mix of fresh vegetables and a rich peanut dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad
- 150g / 6oz medium egg noodles
- 1 large carrot, julienned thinly
- 5 radishes, sliced thinly
- 1/3 of cabbage head / 3 cups red cabbage
- 10g / 1/4 cup cilantro
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
For the Peanut Dressing
- 2 tbsp chunky peanut butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or any other plain vinegar)
- 4 tbsp soy sauce (I use Kikkoman)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic (pressed)
- 2 tsp Sriracha sauce (or 1 tsp dried chili flakes)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Take care not to overcook as Asian noodles tend to cook quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, combine:
1. Chunky peanut butter
2. Honey
3. Rice vinegar
4. Sesame oil
5. Soy sauce
6. Sriracha sauce
7. Grated fresh ginger
8. Pressed garlic
Drain the noodles and put them in a large salad bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the hot noodles so they can absorb the flavor properly. Allow cooling until at room temperature.
Step 3: Slice Your Vegetables
While the noodles cool, prepare your vegetables by:
1. Slicing the red cabbage very thinly using a mandolin slicer if available.
2. Cutting the carrot into thin julienne.
3. Slicing the radishes thinly.
4. Slicing green onions and chopping cilantro.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
When the noodles are at room temperature, add:
– Sliced red cabbage
– Radishes
– Julienned carrots
– Green onion
– Cilantro
– Sesame seeds
Toss everything well to combine.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing!
How to Serve Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
Serving your Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing can elevate any meal, making it a delightful addition to various occasions. This salad is not only vibrant but also versatile, allowing for numerous serving options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
As a Standalone Meal
- Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish can be served on its own. The combination of noodles and fresh vegetables makes it filling and nutritious.
At Picnics and Barbecues
- Bring this salad along to outdoor gatherings. Its refreshing flavors are ideal for warm weather, making it a crowd-pleaser.
As a Side Dish
- Pair your Asian Noodle Salad with grilled meats or seafood. The peanut dressing complements savory dishes beautifully.
In Meal Prep Containers
- Divide the salad into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches. Store in airtight containers to keep ingredients fresh throughout the week.
With Additional Proteins
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost. This variation enhances the flavor while making the dish even more satisfying.
How to Perfect Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
Achieving the perfect Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your salad-making skills.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables like cabbage and carrots enhance the salad’s crunch and flavor.
- Adjust spice levels – Customize the Sriracha or chili flakes according to your heat preference for a milder or spicier kick.
- Chill before serving – Allowing the salad to cool completely lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with garnishes – Top with crushed peanuts or lime wedges for added texture and zest.
- Make ahead – Prepare the dressing and chop vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly when you’re ready to serve.
- Toss gently – Mix all ingredients carefully to avoid breaking the noodles while ensuring everything is well coated in peanut dressing.
Best Side Dishes for Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
Pairing side dishes with your Asian Noodle Salad can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tantalizing options that complement this refreshing salad.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection bring savory flavors that balance the salad’s freshness.
- Teriyaki Salmon – Sweet and savory teriyaki salmon adds a rich taste that pairs well with the peanut dressing.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a crunchy contrast to the noodle salad.
- Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting side that complements the cold salad nicely.
- Edamame Beans – Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers protein-packed goodness alongside your meal.
- Cucumber Pickles – Quick-pickled cucumbers add a tangy crunch that refreshes the palate between bites of noodle salad.
- Fried Tofu Bites – Crispy tofu bites seasoned with soy sauce create a delightful textural contrast perfect for pairing.
- Spicy Shrimp Chips – These light snacks offer a unique crunch while their spice complements the flavors of your noodle salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the noodles: Egg noodles cook quickly, so follow package instructions carefully. Check them a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to avoid mushiness.
- Skipping the cooling step: Pouring dressing over hot noodles can make them soggy. Allow the noodles to cool first, so they absorb the flavors without losing texture.
- Not slicing vegetables properly: Thinly sliced vegetables enhance both texture and presentation. Use a mandolin for even slices and ensure all veggies are cut uniformly.
- Using low-quality peanut butter: A good chunky peanut butter adds depth to your dressing. Choose one without added sugars or oils for better flavor.
- Forgetting garnishes: Toppings like cilantro and sesame seeds add freshness and crunch. Don’t skip these—add them just before serving for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the salad separate from any dressing if possible, as this maintains freshness.
Freezing Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes. If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before using, but expect changes in vegetable crispness.
Reheating Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a portion of salad in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth with the salad. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this salad several hours ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for peanut butter in Asian Noodle Salad?
If you’re allergic to peanuts, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives that will still provide great flavor and creaminess.
How do I customize my Asian Noodle Salad?
Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or include other veggies like bell peppers or cucumber according to your taste preference!
Is this Asian Noodle Salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and ensure your soy sauce is also gluten-free (like tamari).
How can I adjust the spice level of the peanut dressing?
You can easily control the spice by adjusting the Sriracha or chili flakes according to your taste. Start small and add more if you prefer extra heat.
Final Thoughts
The Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing lunch option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins! Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients while savoring this flavorful dish!
Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing
Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly combines flavors and textures. This easy-to-make salad is ideal for any occasion, from picnics to barbecues or a wholesome lunch. Featuring colorful vegetables and a rich, creamy peanut dressing, it’s not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy the crunch of fresh veggies alongside the comforting taste of noodles, all enhanced by a deliciously spiced dressing. Quick to prepare and customizable, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 150g medium egg noodles
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 5 radishes, sliced
- 3 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup cilantro
- 2–3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chunky peanut butter
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, pressed
- 2 tsp Sriracha sauce
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Sriracha.
- Combine cooled noodles with red cabbage, carrots, radishes, green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to mix well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by adding proteins like chicken or tofu. Adjust spice levels by modifying Sriracha based on your preference. Chill before serving for an enhanced flavor experience.