Sesame Ginger Asian Noodle Salad
A refreshing tangle of springy noodles kissed with a tangy sesame-ginger dressing and a colorful medley of crunchy veggies.
Total: 23 minPrep: 15 minCook: 8 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (256+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp chili garlic sauce (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
Steps
- 1 Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until just tender. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
- 2 In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sugar, and chili garlic sauce if using.
- 3 In a large bowl, toss the noodles with the dressing until well coated.
- 4 Add the shredded carrots, diced cucumber, green onions, cabbage, and half of the sesame seeds to the noodles. Gently toss to combine.
- 5 Sprinkle with roasted peanuts and remaining sesame seeds before serving.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Variations
- Add edamame for extra protein.
- Swap rice noodles for soba noodles for a nutty flavor.
Substitutions
- Use tahini in place of sesame oil for a creamier dressing.
- Substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce to make it paleo-friendly.
Pairings
- Spring rolls
- Miso soup
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
42g carbohydrates
Protein:
8g protein
Fiber:
4g fiber
Sugar:
6g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or tofu.
- Make sure to rinse the noodles well to prevent sticking and for a better texture.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss gently before serving again.
Freezing: Does not freeze well due to the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with sesame chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Serve with crispy wontons for an extra crunch.
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.