Save Discover the perfect balance of vibrant colors, fresh vegetables, and bold flavors with this Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad. This lively, Asian-inspired dish brings together tender noodles coated in a creamy, spicy peanut dressing and topped with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro. Whether you're looking for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction and energy in every bite.
Save This salad comes alive with the crisp texture of sugar snap peas, the sweetness of red bell pepper, and the zesty kick of lime juice woven through the peanut dressing. Served chilled or at room temperature, it makes a wonderfully satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients
- Noodles
- 250 g rice noodles or soba noodles
- Water, for boiling
- Vegetables
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small cucumber, julienned
- 100 g sugar snap peas, halved
- 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- Spicy Peanut Dressing
- 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1–2 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (to taste)
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin dressing)
- Toppings
- 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the noodles
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- 2. Prepare vegetables
- Prepare all vegetables as directed and set aside.
- 3. Make the dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, and sesame oil. Add warm water gradually until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
- 4. Combine
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and vegetables. Add the peanut dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
- 5. Serve
- Divide the salad among bowls. Top with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Use cold water to rinse the noodles after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking. Adjust the thickness of the peanut dressing with warm water to get the perfect coating consistency. Julienne the vegetables finely for a better texture and ease of eating.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add grilled tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein. Make it gluten-free by choosing rice noodles and tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Customize the spice level by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste.
Serviervorschläge
Serve chilled for a refreshing meal or at room temperature for a comforting feel. Pair the salad with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus brightness. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for a lovely presentation.
Save This Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad is a delightful way to brighten up your meals with minimal effort. Its harmonious blend of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What noodles work best for this dish?
Rice noodles or soba noodles are ideal, offering a tender texture that complements the crisp vegetables and creamy dressing.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by varying the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- → Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
Yes, use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to two days without losing flavor.
- → What toppings enhance the flavor and texture?
Roasted peanuts and toasted sesame seeds add crunch, while fresh cilantro and lime wedges provide brightness.
- → What protein options complement this bowl?
Grilled tofu, chicken, or shrimp can be added for extra protein and substance.