Dive into the delightful world of Asian cuisine with our Cold Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Vegetables! This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. Perfect for warm days or as a light dinner option, these noodles come together in just 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy sesame sauce, your taste buds are in for a treat! Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks as good as it tastes? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz noodles (e.g., spaghetti or soba)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers)
- 3 tablespoons sesame paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes for spaghetti or soba noodles.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables. Wash and slice the carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers into thin strips or julienne them for a more refined presentation. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons of sesame paste, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, adding more soy sauce or sugar if desired.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help to keep the noodles firm and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled noodles, 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, and the prepared mixed vegetables. Pour the sesame sauce over the noodle mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
- Let the noodle mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the noodles seem dry, you can add a splash of water or more soy sauce to achieve your desired consistency.
- To serve, divide the cold sesame noodles among four plates or bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture.
- Enjoy your Cold Sesame Noodles with Chicken and Vegetables as a refreshing meal or side dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Noodles: While spaghetti works in a pinch, soba noodles are a traditional choice that adds an authentic touch to your dish. They also offer a nutty flavor that complements the sesame sauce beautifully.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the vegetables and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to combine them with the noodles.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices! Snap peas, bell peppers, or shredded cabbage can add even more crunch and color to your dish.
- Chill for Flavor: For an even more refreshing taste, let the assembled noodles chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall dish.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the sesame seeds! They not only add a lovely crunch but also enhance the dish's presentation. Consider adding chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce: The sesame sauce can be tailored to your taste. If you like it spicier, add a dash of chili oil or sesame oil for an extra kick.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this side dish into a full meal, consider adding more protein, such as shrimp or tofu, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish.Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Cold Sesame Noodles!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
