Peanut-Noodle Salad Recipe- The Ultimate Guide to Making Peanut-Noodle Salad
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish? This Peanut-Noodle Salad recipe is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as a light dish for gatherings, this recipe is a blend of bold Asian flavors and fresh, crunchy textures. Whether you’re wondering how to cook Peanut-Noodle Salad or how to make Peanut-Noodle Salad from scratch, this step-by-step guide will help you create the perfect dish every time.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut-Noodle Salad
This salad isn’t just about tossing noodles and veggies together; it’s about the harmony of textures and flavors. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver when time is tight.
- Bursting with Flavor: The creamy peanut sauce combines soy sauce, coconut milk, peanut butter, and sesame oil for a rich, nutty, and tangy taste.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course, side dish, or even as a meal prep option.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels, noodle types, and toppings to suit your preferences.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Peanut-Noodle Salad
To make the best Peanut-Noodle Salad, you’ll need:
- Noodles: Soba noodles bring an authentic Asian touch, but angel hair pasta works just as well if you’re in a pinch.
- Crunchy Veggies: Cucumbers, shredded carrots, and green onions add freshness and a satisfying crunch.
- Creamy Peanut Sauce: Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, rice wine vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of red pepper for spice.
- Optional Garnishes: Toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Peanut-Noodle Salad
Follow these steps for an easy and delicious Peanut-Noodle Salad recipe:
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Cook the soba noodles or angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel and seed the cucumbers, then slice them into half-moon shapes.
- Shred the carrots (if not pre-shredded) and cut the green onions diagonally into 1½-inch pieces.
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, peanut butter, coconut milk, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper. Adjust salt and spice to taste.
- Toss the Salad:
- Add the cooked noodles, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and green onions to the bowl of peanut sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts if desired.
For detailed step-by-step instructions, see the recipe card below.
Tips for Perfecting Your Peanut-Noodle Salad
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
- Make It Peanut-Free: Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
- Plan Ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Why This Recipe Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is a hit for several reasons:
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a casual lunch, dinner, or potluck, this salad fits the bill.
- Health Benefits: Packed with veggies, healthy fats, and protein, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.
Peanut-Noodle Salad Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Bowl For mixing the peanut sauce and tossing the salad ingredients.
- whisk To combine the soy sauce, peanut butter, and other dressing ingredients.
- Knife For peeling and slicing cucumbers, cutting carrots, and green onions.
- cutting board For prepping vegetables.
- Saucepan To cook the soba noodles or pasta.
- Strainer/Colander For draining the cooked noodles.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient measurements.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 cup soy sauce
- ½ cup coconut milk
- ½ cup rice wine vinegar
- ½ cup chunky peanut butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ – 1 tsp dry crushed red pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 pkg soba noodles or angel hair pasta, 16oz, cooked
- 1 pkg shredded fresh carrots 8oz
- 6 green onions cut diagonally into 1½-inch pieces
Instructions
- Peel cucumbers; cut in half lengthwise, removing and discarding seeds.
- Cut cucumber halves into half-moon shaped slices.
- Whisk together soy sauce and the next 7 ingredients in a large bowl; add cucumber, pasta, carrot, and onions, tossing to coat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
WARNING: This is not to be served to people with nut &/or peanut allegeries.
Noodle Choice: You can use soba noodles for an authentic Asian touch, or substitute with angel hair pasta for convenience. Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the crushed red pepper to make the salad milder or spicier. Peanut-Free Option: If you have a peanut allergy, swap out peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter. Serving Suggestion: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for an extra crunch and garnish. Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings!Nutrition
FAQs About Peanut-Noodle Salad Recipe
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free soba noodles or rice noodles and swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
Q: How long can I store Peanut-Noodle Salad?
A: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for meal prep!
Q: Can I add extra veggies to the salad?
A: Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded cabbage make great additions to enhance the flavor and crunch.
Q: What can I use as a peanut butter substitute?
A: If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond butter or sunflower seed butter works well as a substitute without compromising the flavor.
Chef B Final Thoughts
Learning how to make Peanut-Noodle Salad is easy and rewarding. This recipe is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or prepping meals for the week, this salad is sure to impress.
So, the next time you’re searching for a delicious and easy Peanut-Noodle Salad recipe or wondering how to cook Peanut-Noodle Salad, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Tried this recipe? Don’t forget to share your success stories and tag us in your Peanut-Noodle Salad pics!
Hi, I’m Chef B! Passionate about all things culinary, I’ve spent years perfecting my recipes to bring bold flavors to your kitchen. Let’s cook up something delicious together!
Loved it!