Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your senses straight to the vibrant streets of Asia! This Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Ginger Dressing is not just a recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of textures, freshness, and zesty goodness. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick meal or a food enthusiast craving something extraordinary, this dish promises to be your new obsession that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g rice noodles
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add rice noodles to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes, until they are tender but still slightly firm. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy texture.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice bell peppers into thin strips, shred cabbage, and grate carrots using a box grater or food processor.
- Drain the cooked noodles in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles down. Drain thoroughly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, grated ginger, lime juice, and honey until smooth and well combined.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled rice noodles with sliced bell peppers, shredded cabbage, and grated carrots.
- Pour the prepared peanut ginger dressing over the noodles and vegetables, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Garnish the salad with freshly chopped cilantro, distributing it evenly across the top.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the dressing to absorb into the noodles and vegetables.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally garnishing with additional chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Tips
- Noodle Cooking Hack: Always rinse rice noodles with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming sticky or mushy.
- Dressing Consistency is Key: Whisk the peanut ginger dressing thoroughly to ensure a smooth, well-integrated sauce that coats every noodle and vegetable perfectly.
- Prep Ahead: Chop all vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator to make the cooking process quick and seamless.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make this dish more substantial.
- Maximize Flavor: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to fully absorb into the noodles and vegetables, intensifying the taste.
- Garnish Game: For an extra crunch and flavor boost, consider topping with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
