If there’s a dish that truly dances on your taste buds and brings vibrancy to any table, it’s the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe. Imagine bouncy noodles tossed with crisp veggies, all enveloped in a creamy, bold, peanutty sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a flavorful side, or a make-ahead dinner for busy days, this salad is a knockout you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is delightfully simple, letting each ingredient shine in both flavor and color. Every component plays a key role, from the crunch of fresh veggies to the richness of the peanut dressing—don’t skip a thing!
- Rice noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): Choose your favorite; rice noodles keep things gluten-free and add an authentic chewy bite.
- Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Adds gorgeous color and that essential crunch.
- Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1): Sweet, juicy, and provides a pop of brightness.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Mildly sweet and perfect for adding vibrant color.
- Green onions, sliced (3): Offer a gentle sharpness and fresh finish.
- Chopped cucumber (1/2 cup): Brings a cooling, crisp texture that balances the spice.
- Chopped cilantro (1/4 cup): A fresh, herbaceous lift that ties the whole dish together.
- Chopped roasted peanuts (1/4 cup, for garnish): For crunch and those irresistible salty bites.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): Sprinkle for a subtle nuttiness and extra flare.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/3 cup): The soul of the dressing—use creamy for a smooth sauce every time.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Essential for that deep, salt-forward umami.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): This gives the dressing its signature tang.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and freshens every bite.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Offers just enough sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A drizzle brings warmth and aromatic depth.
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (1–2 teaspoons, to taste): Choose your heat level; it’s what makes the salad sing!
- Garlic, minced (1 clove): Give your dressing that essential punch of aroma and flavor.
- Warm water (2–3 tablespoons, to thin): For creating the perfect pourable (but still luscious) consistency.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prep Your Noodles
Begin by cooking your rice noodles or spaghetti exactly as the package directs. After boiling, be sure to drain and rinse the noodles under cold water. This step cools them down, stops the cooking process, and keeps them from sticking together. Set them aside—your noodle base is ready for all the good stuff to come.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Dreamy Spicy Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), toasted sesame oil, sriracha, minced garlic, and warm water. This combination is where the magic happens! If you like it extra spicy, add another teaspoon of chili sauce. Aim for a smooth, creamy sauce that’s pourable but still thick enough to cling to your noodles. Taste and adjust as you go—this sauce is the star of the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe.
Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Veggie Medley
Gather your red cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, green onions, cucumber, and cilantro. Place them in a large mixing bowl. These colorful veggies aren’t just for looks; each one brings a different flavor and texture, from juicy, sweet bell pepper to crisp cucumbers and fresh cilantro. The more colorful, the better!
Step 4: Toss It All Together
Add the cooled noodles to your vegetable bowl and pour the spicy peanut dressing over the top. Use tongs or two forks to toss everything thoroughly—you want every strand of noodle coated and every veggie glistening with sauce. If you have the time, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge. The flavors deepen and meld together, making it even more irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe by sprinkling chopped roasted peanuts and a shower of sesame seeds over the top. These simple touches add a final layer of crunch and nutty goodness that makes each bite special. Serve it up right away, or let it chill a bit longer if you prefer your salad nice and cold.
How to Serve Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your salad by going all-in on garnishes. Besides the roasted peanuts and sesame seeds, consider adding extra sprigs of cilantro, a lime wedge on the side, or rainbow-hued radish slices for extra crunch and visual appeal. Little touches like these turn an everyday salad into a true feast for the eyes (and taste buds)!
Side Dishes
This Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is a superstar on its own, but it also shines next to simple grilled chicken, marinated tofu, or succulent shrimp for extra protein. For a table full of contrasts, serve it alongside summer rolls, veggie dumplings, or a warming miso soup—it plays well with all sorts of Asian-inspired favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, serve the salad in individual bowls topped with extra nuts and herbs for a fresh, restaurant-style touch. Or, make cute lettuce cups for party-ready finger food! You can even layer ingredients in a mason jar—dressing first, sturdy veggies, then noodles for a portable lunch that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Storing leftovers is effortless. Simply transfer your Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they meld, although the noodles may soak up some dressing. If needed, toss with a splash of soy sauce or lime juice before serving to freshen everything up.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The fresh veggies lose their crispness and the noodles and dressing can become mushy or separate after thawing. To enjoy at its best, stick to preparing this salad for the fridge only—it’s just so quick, there’s really no need to freeze!
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you’d like to warm it slightly, give it a quick zap in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, just enough to take the chill off without cooking the veggies. Stir after heating and dive in.
FAQs
Can I use different noodles for this Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While rice noodles are classic, feel free to use spaghetti, soba, or even spiralized veggie noodles for a lighter twist. Just make sure to rinse cooked noodles thoroughly with cold water for the perfect texture.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of heat is totally up to you! Start with a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce, taste, and add more if you love a real kick. You can keep it mild for gentle palates or turn up the fire for spicy food fans.
Is this salad gluten-free and vegan?
Yes—with simple swaps! Choose gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and use maple syrup in place of honey for a totally vegan version. Double-check all labels if allergies are a concern.
Can I make this Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe in advance?
Definitely. In fact, it often tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld. Store the garnishes separately and toss just before serving for the best crunch.
What proteins can I add to make this more filling?
Grilled or rotisserie chicken, crispy tofu, seared shrimp, or even edamame are fantastic with this salad. Toss them in with the noodles for a protein-packed main course that’s still refreshingly light.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something bold, fresh, and a little different, give the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe a whirl. Every bowl brings together a harmony of flavors and textures that are sure to win you over, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck showstopper. Grab those ingredients and get ready—your new favorite salad awaits!
Print
Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This Asian-inspired dish combines tender noodles with crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a creamy and spicy peanut dressing. It’s a versatile and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Ingredients
Rice Noodle Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti, cooked and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Spicy Peanut Dressing:
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and water until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix noodles, cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, green onions, cucumber, and cilantro. Toss with the peanut dressing.
- Finish and serve: Top with peanuts and sesame seeds. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes. Enjoy!
Notes
- This salad tastes even better the next day.
- Add protein like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Use gluten-free tamari if necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
