Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most addictive Asian-inspired noodle dish that will transport you straight to culinary heaven! This Tangy Shrimp Noodle Salad is not just a meal - it's a vibrant, zesty experience that combines the perfect balance of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and restaurant-quality sophistication. In less than 30 minutes, you'll create a dish so delicious, it'll become your new go-to recipe for impressing friends, satisfying hunger, and making weeknight dinners feel like a gourmet celebration!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still have a slight bite. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking, then set aside.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare the shrimp. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Add the shrimp to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, quickly stir-fry the sliced bell peppers for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, remaining sesame oil, and chili flakes to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice noodles, seared shrimp, stir-fried bell peppers, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the noodle mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lime juice, soy sauce, or chili flakes to suit your preference.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional cilantro and green onions if desired. Can be served warm or chilled.
Tips
- Shrimp Searing Secret: Always pat your shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Noodle Texture Tip: Cook rice noodles just until al dente - they'll continue to soften when mixed with the warm ingredients.
- Flavor Layering: Add chili flakes gradually and taste as you go to control the heat level to your preference.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better after the flavors meld, so it's perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu if desired, keeping the same delicious dressing and technique.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the most vibrant, bright flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
