Looking for a dish that perfectly balances flavor, texture, and refreshment? Dive into the world of Cold Sesame Noodles with Crunchy Vegetables! This delightful Chinese-inspired recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a vibrant addition to your dinner table. With its creamy sesame sauce and a medley of colorful veggies, this dish is the ultimate solution for a hot day or a quick meal prep. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a tantalizing combination of simplicity and satisfaction that will leave you craving more. Let’s unlock the secrets to this culinary gem!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or noodles
- 1/4 cup sesame paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 cup bell peppers, julienned
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti or noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the sesame sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sesame paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth and well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Drain the cooked noodles in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles down. Shake off excess water and drain thoroughly.
- Julienne the bell peppers and cucumber into thin, uniform strips. Chop the green onions into fine pieces.
- Transfer the cooled noodles to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sesame sauce over the noodles and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every strand is evenly coated.
- Add the julienned bell peppers and cucumber to the noodles. Gently mix to distribute the vegetables throughout the dish.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the noodles to chill.
- Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve cold as a refreshing appetizer or light meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Noodles: While spaghetti works in a pinch, using traditional Asian noodles like soba or udon can elevate the dish’s authenticity and texture.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can julienne the vegetables and prepare the sesame sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge until you're ready to assemble.
- Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sesame sauce to your liking! If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of chili oil or red pepper flakes.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the noodles to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes the dish even more refreshing.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes. Chopped peanuts, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it a Meal: To turn this side dish into a hearty meal, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for added protein.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like spring rolls or dumplings for a complete feast that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
