This Asian Sesame Noodle Salad is a vibrant cold noodle dish that combines tender spaghetti noodles, crisp julienned carrots, chopped scallions, and crunchy peanuts, all tossed in a savory-sweet sesame dressing. It’s a delightful option for those looking for a light and refreshing meal.
Inspired by classic Asian noodle salad recipes, this dish features a rich sesame dressing made with toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey or maple syrup, with optional sriracha for a spicy kick. Perfect for lunch, potlucks, or as a side dish for grilled meats.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Refreshing Dish
The Asian Sesame Noodle Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. This colorful dish features vibrant spaghetti noodles that serve as the perfect base for a medley of fresh ingredients.
Julienned carrots add a crisp texture, while chopped scallions introduce a mild onion flavor. Roasted peanuts contribute a delightful crunch, making every bite satisfying. The combination of these elements creates a visually appealing and flavorful cold noodle salad.
Creating the Perfect Sesame Dressing
The heart of this salad lies in its glossy sesame dressing. A harmonious blend of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup brings depth to the dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of sriracha can be added for a spicy kick. This dressing not only enhances the flavors of the salad but also ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this Asian Noodle Salad is straightforward and quick. Start by cooking the noodles until they reach the perfect al dente texture. Rinsing them under cold water helps to cool them down, making them ideal for a refreshing cold noodle salad.
Next, whisk together the ingredients for the sesame dressing in a bowl. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the flavors meld together before being tossed with the salad.
Combining Flavors and Textures
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled noodles with the vibrant vegetables and half of the roasted peanuts. Pour the sesame dressing over the top and toss everything together until well coated.
This step is essential for ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of textures from the noodles, vegetables, and peanuts creates a delightful eating experience.
Garnishing for Presentation
Once the salad is mixed, it’s time to transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with the remaining chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an added touch of elegance.
Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds extra crunch and flavor, making the dish even more enjoyable. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Asian Sesame Noodle Salad is versatile and suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or a potluck contribution, this salad fits the bill.
With its refreshing flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends. Enjoy this delightful dish as a part of your next meal, and savor the vibrant tastes of Asian cuisine.
Easy Asian Sesame Noodle Salad Recipe
This salad features al dente noodles mixed with fresh vegetables and a flavorful sesame dressing. The preparation is simple and takes about 20 minutes, serving 4 people. Garnish with roasted peanuts and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti or rice noodles
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sriracha (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, julienned carrots, chopped scallions, and half of the chopped peanuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with the remaining peanuts and toasted sesame seeds. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g