Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, flavorful dish that perfectly balances crunch and creaminess. It’s not just delicious but also versatile, making it suitable for picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful lunch option. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty noodles, and a spicy peanut dressing creates an enticing meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Packed with Flavor: The spicy peanut dressing infuses the noodles and veggies with rich flavors that are sure to impress.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side dish or add protein for a complete meal—it’s great any time!
• Make Ahead Friendly: This salad keeps well in the fridge, so you can prepare it ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this Asian Noodle Salad much easier. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Salad bowl
• Mandolin slicer (optional)
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the noodles efficiently without overcrowding.
• Salad bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Mandolin slicer: Helps achieve uniform vegetable slices quickly, enhancing presentation.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the peanut dressing before adding it to the noodles.

Ingredients

For this Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing, gather the following ingredients:

For the Noodles

• 150g / 6oz medium egg noodles

For the Vegetables

• 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

For the 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 chilli flakes)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

How to Make Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Take care not to overcook them as Asian noodles usually cook faster than Italian pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine the chunky peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, Sriracha sauce, grated fresh ginger, and pressed garlic.

Step 3: Combine Noodles and Dressing

1. Drain the cooked noodles and place them into a large salad bowl.
2. Pour the peanut dressing over the warm noodles to allow them to absorb all those delicious flavors.
3. Let them cool until they reach room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Vegetables

1. While waiting for the noodles to cool, slice the red cabbage very thinly using a mandolin slicer if available.
2. Julienne the carrot and slice the radishes thinly.
3. Chop cilantro and slice green onions.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

1. Once cooled, add sliced red cabbage, radishes, julienned carrots, green onion, cilantro, and sesame seeds to the noodle mixture.
2. Toss everything together until well combined.

Enjoy your refreshing 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. This vibrant dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for different occasions.

Picnic Delight

• Serve the salad in individual portions for easy sharing at picnics. Add extra peanuts on top for a crunchy texture.

Barbecue Companion

• Pair with grilled chicken or beef skewers. The flavors of the peanut dressing complement smoky meats perfectly.

Lunch Bowl

• Pack the salad in a mason jar for a refreshing lunch option. Layer ingredients to keep them fresh until it’s time to eat.

Potluck Favorite

• Bring this dish to potlucks as a crowd-pleaser. Its colorful presentation and tasty dressing will attract everyone’s attention.

How to Perfect Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

To make your Asian Noodle Salad even better, consider these tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables give the salad a crispness that enhances each bite.
• Adjust spice levels – Modify the amount of Sriracha sauce according to your heat preference for a customized experience.
• Chill before serving – Refrigerating the salad for 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add protein – Consider adding cooked chicken or tofu for an added protein boost, making it more filling.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

When planning a meal featuring Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing, consider these complementary side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a smoky element; grill them until tender.
2. Crispy Spring Rolls – These can be filled with veggies or shrimp, providing an excellent crunchy contrast.
3. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup complements the cold salad nicely, balancing temperatures.
4. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame offers a nutritious snack and pairs well with Asian flavors.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar adds freshness and crunch.
6. Sesame Garlic Broccoli – Steamed broccoli tossed with sesame oil and garlic brings an earthy richness to your meal.
7. Fruit Salad – A tropical fruit salad can be refreshing alongside the savory flavors of the noodle salad.
8. Thai Mango Sticky Rice – For dessert, this sweet dish rounds off your meal with its delightful contrast of flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking Noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and taste them just before draining.
• Ignoring Vegetable Preparation: Cutting vegetables unevenly can affect the salad’s texture and presentation. Use a mandolin for consistent slices and juliennes where possible.
• Not Cooling Noodles Properly: Pouring dressing over hot noodles prevents flavor absorption. Let the noodles cool to room temperature first for optimal taste.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition. Don’t skip or substitute them with dried ingredients; fresh is key for this recipe.
• Using Low-Quality Peanut Butter: Cheap peanut butter can alter the taste of your dressing. Opt for chunky or natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for best results.
• Neglecting Balance in Dressing: A bland dressing will undercut your salad’s potential. Adjust the seasoning by tasting as you mix, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may change the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
• If you must freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer salad to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing:

How can I customize my Asian Noodle Salad?

You can add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, or switch out vegetables based on what you have at home.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead, but store the dressing separately until ready to serve.

What is the best way to serve Asian Noodle Salad?

This salad is great chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or barbecues.

Is Asian Noodle Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s easy to pack and stays fresh in the refrigerator, making it ideal for weekly meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it uniquely yours. Give this recipe a try — it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy a vibrant Asian Noodle Salad in Peanut Dressing that’s perfect for any occasion! Try it today for a fresh and flavorful meal!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 150g medium egg noodles
• 1 large carrot (julienned)
• 5 radishes (sliced)
• 3 cups red cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 2–3 green onions (sliced)
• 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
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. 1. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool to room temperature.
2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, Sriracha, grated ginger, and pressed garlic until smooth.
3. 3. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled noodles with the peanut dressing, ensuring they are well coated.
4. 4. Add julienned carrots, sliced radishes, red cabbage, green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds to the noodle mixture. Toss gently to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling/Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 510mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg