Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of vibrant flavors in every bite! Our Sesame Asian Noodle Salad is not just a dish; it’s a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Asia. With its colorful medley of fresh vegetables and the nutty aroma of sesame oil, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or as a stunning side at your next gathering. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this refreshing and satisfying salad that promises to impress your family and friends. Are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz soba noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance flavor.
- Carefully add soba noodles to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically 4-6 minutes, until noodles are tender but still have a slight bite.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. This will help stop the cooking process and cool the noodles quickly.
- Once noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and immediately transfer to the ice bath. Gently swirl noodles to cool and prevent further cooking.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds to create the dressing. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Drain cooled noodles completely and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the noodles with shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and chopped green onions.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Cook the Noodles Perfectly: Keep an eye on the soba noodles as they cook; you want them tender yet firm (al dente) for the best texture in your salad.
- Ice Bath is Key: Don’t skip the ice bath! This step halts the cooking process and ensures the noodles remain perfectly chewy while also making them cool enough to toss with fresh vegetables.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Snap peas, cucumbers, or even edamame can add extra crunch and flavor.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Allowing the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes before serving helps the flavors to blend beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
- Garnish for Extra Flair: A sprinkle of additional sesame seeds or some chopped cilantro can elevate the presentation and add a pop of freshness just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
