Asian Noodle Salad

Asian Noodle Salad Recipe

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If you’re craving a refreshing and flavorful meal with a touch of Asian-inspired flair, this Asian Noodle Salad is perfect for you! This vibrant dish combines crisp vegetables, chewy noodles, and a rich peanut ginger dressing, making it an ideal meal or side dish for any occasion. Let’s explore this delightful recipe packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Introduction

Asian Noodle Salad brings together the best of fresh, crunchy vegetables and savory flavors. This dish, featuring udon or soba noodles, broccoli slaw, and a creamy peanut ginger dressing, is not only satisfying but also loaded with color and texture. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a lighter, nutrient-dense meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for warm days or meal-prep lunches.

Ingredients

Asian Noodle Salad

  • 8 ounces udon, rice noodles, or gluten-free soba noodles
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
  • 12 ounces broccoli slaw
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 3/4 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Peanut Ginger Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger or ginger paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 teaspoons fresh chili paste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
  2. Prepare the Salad: In a large serving bowl, add the drained noodles. Top with red bell pepper, broccoli slaw mix, cilantro, peanuts, and sesame seeds for a colorful and crunchy base.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar, peanut butter, minced ginger, garlic, and chili paste. Stir until the dressing is smooth and well-blended.
  4. Combine and Serve: Drizzle the peanut ginger dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and your vibrant Asian Noodle Salad is ready to enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • Noodle Choice: Feel free to choose noodles based on your dietary preference. Udon, rice noodles, or gluten-free soba all work well and offer unique textures.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: Add shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, or edamame for extra color and nutrition.
  • Storage Tip: If you’re preparing this dish in advance, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

Cooking Tips

Here are some additional tips to perfect your Asian Noodle Salad:

  • Dress Just Before Serving: If making this salad ahead of time, add the dressing right before serving to keep the noodles from absorbing too much of the dressing.
  • Toasting Sesame Seeds: Toasting sesame seeds brings out their nutty flavor. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
  • Equipment Tip: A whisk helps blend the peanut butter dressing smoothly, and a large mixing bowl is essential for tossing the salad evenly.

Serving Suggestions

This Asian Noodle Salad is versatile and pairs well with other Asian-inspired dishes, such as spring rolls or dumplings. It’s delicious as a standalone meal but can also be served as a side to grilled chicken or tofu for added protein. Garnish with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Nutritional Information

This salad is nutrient-dense, offering a balance of healthy fats, protein, and fiber from the noodles, vegetables, and dressing ingredients.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 360
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Potassium: 380mg
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Vitamin A: 20%
  • Vitamin C: 50%
  • Calcium: 6%
  • Iron: 15%

This salad is a great source of fiber and essential nutrients, making it both delicious and wholesome.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the fresh crunch, store the dressing separately if possible.

Reheat: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating.

Use leftover dressing as a dip for vegetables, or drizzle it over grilled chicken or tofu for a quick meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, rice noodles, soba noodles, and even spaghetti work well in this recipe, allowing you to customize based on preference.

What if I’m allergic to peanuts?
You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter in the dressing. For a peanut-free garnish, try toasted cashews or omit the nuts.

Can I make this salad spicy?
Absolutely. Simply add more chili paste or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for extra heat.

Here are some other refreshing, Asian-inspired recipes you might enjoy:

Conclusion

This Asian Noodle Salad is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for meal prep or a satisfying, healthy lunch. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how you enjoyed it! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish or a standalone meal, this salad brings a delightful crunch and savory dressing that everyone will love.

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