Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of flavors? Dive into the world of vibrant colors and delightful textures with our Spicy Vegetarian Peanut Noodle Salad! This Asian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the crunch of fresh vegetables, creating a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will elevate your culinary game and impress your guests. Don't miss out on discovering how to create this deliciously satisfying dish!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sriracha
- Chopped peanuts for garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare the sauce by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and sriracha in a large mixing bowl until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little warm water to reach a pourable consistency.
- Prepare the vegetables: julienne the cucumber, slice the red bell pepper thinly, shred the carrots, and chop the green onions. Set aside.
- Drain the cooled noodles completely and add them to the bowl with the peanut sauce. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Add the prepared vegetables to the noodles and mix gently to distribute them throughout the salad.
- Transfer the noodle salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish generously with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: When cooking rice noodles, be sure to follow the package instructions closely to achieve that ideal al dente texture. Rinsing them under cold water is crucial to prevent sticking and overcooking.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, or even shredded cabbage can add a unique twist!
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce. For a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: If your peanut sauce is too thick, simply add warm water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. A smooth sauce will coat the noodles beautifully.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving enhances the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
- Storage Tips: This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just give it a good toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the toppings! Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro not only add flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
