Looking for a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner? This Asian Noodle Salad is a fantastic option that combines vibrant vegetables, hearty noodles, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and healthy. This recipe is not only vegan but also easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Asian-inspired salad that will soon become a staple in your recipe collection.
### Asian Noodle Salad
#### Ingredients:
– 8 oz of rice vermicelli noodles
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cucumber, julienned
– 1 medium carrot, shredded
– 1 cup of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 3 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup of roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
#### For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 2 tbsp of rice vinegar
– 1 tbsp of sesame oil
– 1 tbsp of agave syrup or maple syrup
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp of fresh ginger, grated
#### Instructions:
1. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the red bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, purple cabbage, green onions, and cilantro.
3. Add the cooked and cooled rice vermicelli noodles to the bowl with the vegetables.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, agave syrup, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
6. Toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the salad and toss lightly to incorporate.
8. Serve the Asian Noodle Salad in bowls or plates, and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
9. Enjoy this delightful salad immediately or refrigerate for later. It tastes even better as the flavors have time to meld together.
This Asian Noodle Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings for a light and wholesome meal. The colorful assortment of vegetables paired with the nutty sesame dressing creates a harmonious dish that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The addition of rice vermicelli noodles adds a comforting element to the salad, making it a well-rounded and fulfilling dish.
Customize this recipe by adding your favorite protein such as marinated tofu, edamame, or tempeh for an extra boost of nutrients and satiety. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what is in season or your personal preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or toppings to make this salad your own unique creation.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or simply craving something fresh and delicious, this Asian Noodle Salad is a versatile and delightful option that is sure to impress. Embrace the vibrant flavors of this vegan dish and share it with your friends and family for a delightful dining experience.
