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Cold Sesame Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Cold Sesame Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce
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Cold Sesame Noodles with Spicy Peanut Sauce is a quick and vibrant dish featuring chewy noodles tossed in a creamy, nutty, and spicy peanut sauce. Perfect served cold, this easy-to-make meal combines fresh vegetables, toasted sesame seeds, and bold flavors for a refreshing and satisfying experience ideal for warm days, lunches, or picnics.

Ingredients

Scale

Noodles

  • 200g thin spaghetti or Chinese-style wheat noodles

Spicy Peanut Sauce

  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free/vegan)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1–2 tsp chili paste or Sriracha (adjust to taste)

Fresh Vegetables & Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Boil noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the spicy peanut sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chili paste until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning by adding more chili or sweetener as desired.
  3. Combine noodles and sauce: Pour the spicy peanut sauce over the cooled noodles and toss well to evenly coat all strands. The noodles should appear glossy and richly coated but not soupy.
  4. Add fresh veggies and garnish: Mix in shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and scallions for a fresh crunch. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty finish.
  5. Chill before serving: Refrigerate the noodles for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold for the best refreshing taste.

Notes

  • Use firm, thin noodles like spaghetti or Chinese wheat noodles that hold the sauce well and won’t become mushy.
  • Rinse noodles with cold water after cooking and refrigerate to achieve optimal texture.
  • Adjust chili paste gradually to balance heat according to taste, especially for children or spice-sensitive eaters.
  • Use freshly minced garlic for a sharper, more vibrant flavor rather than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
  • Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan briefly to enhance nuttiness and add crunch.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add a splash of water or soy sauce and toss before serving.
  • This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated; freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodles, spicy peanut sauce, easy lunch, Asian noodles, peanut noodles, gluten free noodles, vegan peanut sauce, quick dinner

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/cold-sesame-noodles-with-spicy-peanut-sauce/