Imagine a culinary adventure that combines the tangy punch of Korean kimchi with the comforting embrace of perfectly cooked pasta - this isn't just a recipe, it's a flavor revolution! Our Asian Kimchi Pasta Salad is a mind-blowing fusion dish that will transform your everyday meal into an extraordinary gastronomic experience. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you'll create a vibrant, zesty, and utterly irresistible dish that will have your friends and family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing for the salad. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Whisk together until well combined and set aside.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Allow it to drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped kimchi (1 cup), sliced green onions (1/2 cup), and the cooled pasta. Gently toss these ingredients together to combine them evenly.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a spatula or tongs to toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
- Once everything is combined, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds over the top of the salad. Give it one final gentle toss to distribute the sesame seeds throughout the salad.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can also be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a more refreshing taste.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. Serve in bowls or on a platter, garnished with additional sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: While the recipe works with any pasta, short shapes like rotini or fusilli are ideal as they capture more of the delicious dressing.
- Kimchi Quality Matters: Use fresh, high-quality kimchi for the most authentic and vibrant flavor. If possible, get it from a Korean grocery store.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the spice level by selecting mild or spicy kimchi based on your preference.
- Chill for Enhanced Flavor: While delicious immediately, this salad tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator for an hour, allowing flavors to meld.
- Make it a Protein Powerhouse: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly toasted sesame seeds for maximum nutty flavor and crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 128kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
