Description
This refreshing Soba Noodle Salad with Peanut Sauce combines tender soba noodles with crunchy vegetables and a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, this quick and easy recipe is ready in just 20 minutes and serves four. The salad is vibrant, flavorful, and can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 ounces soba noodles
- 3 cups shredded red cabbage (about 1/4 head)
- 2 carrots, finely sliced or grated
- 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1/2 tablespoon ginger, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
- 1/4 cup warm water, plus more as necessary
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 4 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water until completely cooled. Set aside.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: While cooking the noodles, combine the peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, sesame oil, and warm water in a small bowl. Whisk well; the mixture will initially appear clumpy but will smooth out to a creamy sauce. Add additional water in 1 tablespoon increments if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Combine: Place the cooled noodles in a large bowl and add half of the peanut sauce. Use tongs to toss the noodles thoroughly to prevent sticking. Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, cilantro, and the remaining peanut sauce. Toss again until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top if using. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soba noodles or substitute with rice noodles.
- Adjust the lime juice and soy sauce quantities according to personal taste for acidity and saltiness.
- To make it vegan, ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly and use maple syrup as an alternative.
- Adding chopped peanuts on top can enhance the texture and flavor.
- This salad can be prepared ahead and tastes even better after chilling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
