Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or a simple lunch at home. With its colorful mix of fresh vegetables and a creamy, spicy peanut dressing, this salad not only delights the taste buds but also provides a nutritious meal option. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad takes just 27 minutes to make, making it perfect for those on the go.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh veggies and spicy peanut dressing creates a delightful explosion of flavors.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this salad as a side dish or as a main course by adding protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious taste and beautiful presentation will impress your family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Asian Noodle Salad effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Below are some tools that will help you prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mandolin slicer (optional)
• Salad bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking noodles quickly without sticking.
• Mandolin slicer: Ensures uniform slices of vegetables for an appealing presentation.
• Salad bowl: Provides ample space for tossing all ingredients together without mess.

Ingredients

This Asian Noodle Salad with thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrots, and radishes in spicy peanut dressing is ideal for picnics, barbecues, or lunch!

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. Be careful not to overcook them as Asian noodles cook faster than Italian pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Dressing

In a small bowl, combine:
* chunky peanut butter
* honey
* rice vinegar
* sesame oil
* soy sauce
* Sriracha sauce
* grated fresh ginger
* pressed garlic

Drain the cooked noodles and place them in a large salad bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the hot noodles so they can absorb the flavor properly. Allow cooling until room temperature.

Step 3: Slice the Vegetables

While the noodles are cooling:
* Slice the red cabbage very thinly using a mandolin slicer if available.
* Cut the carrot into thin julienne strips.
* Slice the radishes thinly.
* Slice green onions and chop cilantro.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

When the noodles have cooled to room temperature, add:
* sliced red cabbage
* radishes
* julienned carrots
* green onion
* cilantro
* sesame seeds

Toss everything together to combine well. Enjoy your delicious Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing!

How to Serve Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

This vibrant Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience or cater to different occasions.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing lunch option that’s perfect on warm days.
• Add grilled chicken or tofu for a protein-packed meal.

At Picnics and Barbecues

• Pack in portable containers for easy transport and serving at outdoor gatherings.
• Pair with skewers or grilled meats for a well-rounded meal.

As a Side Dish

• This salad complements grilled fish or meat, adding crunch and flavor.
• Serve alongside spring rolls for an Asian-inspired feast.

For Meal Prepping

• Store in airtight containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

How to Perfect Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

To achieve the best results with your Asian Noodle Salad, consider the following tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use hot noodles: Pour the peanut dressing over hot noodles to help them absorb flavors better.
• Slice vegetables thinly: Thin slices of cabbage, carrots, and radishes add a delightful crunch and balance.
• Adjust spiciness: Modify Sriracha levels according to your heat preference; you can substitute with chili flakes if desired.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Garnish creatively: Top with additional sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for extra texture and visual appeal.
• Experiment with ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

This Asian Noodle Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in soy sauce and ginger, perfect for grilling alongside.
2. Spring Rolls: Fresh veggies wrapped in rice paper, served with sweet chili sauce, adding a light touch.
3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame make a healthy snack that’s rich in protein.
4. Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned tofu fried until golden brown provides a satisfying crunch alongside the salad.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and contrast to the cold noodle salad.
6. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered vegetables fried until crispy offer a delightful texture contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the noodles: Ensure you cook the medium egg noodles according to package instructions. Overcooked noodles can become mushy, ruining the texture of your salad.
• Neglecting to cool the noodles: Allow the noodles to cool to room temperature before adding vegetables. This prevents wilting and helps the flavors blend better.
• Skipping the dressing: Don’t forget to pour the peanut dressing over hot noodles. This step allows them to absorb all that delicious flavor.
• Cutting vegetables unevenly: Use a mandolin slicer for even, thin slices of cabbage and radishes. Consistent sizes ensure even distribution and enhance presentation.
• Not adjusting spice levels: The amount of Sriracha can be tailored to your taste. Start with less if you’re unsure about spice, as you can always add more later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Asian Noodle Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in vegetables after thawing.
• If you must freeze it, separate the dressing from the salad components and store them separately.

Reheating Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion of the salad in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over low heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add your salad mixture and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing?

Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a refreshing side dish made with medium egg noodles, colorful vegetables, and a creamy peanut-based dressing that adds a delightful flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time! Just keep it refrigerated and assemble it with dressing shortly before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you’re allergic or looking for alternatives, consider using almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter in the dressing.

How spicy is this Asian Noodle Salad?

The spice level depends on how much Sriracha you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and adjust according to your preference.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

To make the Asian Noodle Salad vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the peanut dressing recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is not only vibrant but also versatile. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a nutritious lunch option. Feel free to customize it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or by including seasonal vegetables. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!

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Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a vibrant and satisfying dish that perfectly combines fresh vegetables and a creamy, spicy peanut dressing. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or quick lunches at home, this salad offers an explosion of flavors and textures while providing a nutritious meal option. With its easy preparation—taking just 27 minutes to make—it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. Enjoy it as a refreshing main course by adding proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or serve it as a delightful side dish that complements various meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150g medium egg noodles
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 5 radishes (sliced)
• 3 cups red cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 10g cilantro
• 2–3 green onions (sliced)
• 2 tbsp chunky peanut butter
• 1 tbsp honey
• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp Sriracha sauce

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Instructions

1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, Sriracha, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic to make the dressing.
3. Combine cooled noodles with the dressing in a salad bowl.
4. Slice vegetables thinly and add to the noodle mixture.
5. Toss everything together until well combined.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg