A Quick and Satisfying Meal

Spicy Peanut Noodles are the perfect blend of creamy, nutty, and spicy flavors, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite. Whether served warm or cold, these noodles pack a punch of bold flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

A Dish with Global Inspiration

Inspired by Asian cuisine, Spicy Peanut Noodles bring together the rich, creamy texture of peanut sauce with the heat of chili flakes and the umami depth of soy sauce. Growing up, peanut-based dishes were always a comfort food, and this version brings that nostalgic taste with an added kick of spice. You can customize it with your favorite protein, vegetables, and spice level to make it your own.

Ingredient Notes

What You’ll Need

Noodles: Lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti work well.
Peanut butter: The base for the creamy sauce.
Soy sauce: Adds depth and saltiness.
Sesame oil: Enhances the nutty flavor.
Rice vinegar: Provides balance and tanginess.
Honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
Garlic & ginger: Essential aromatics.
Red pepper flakes or Sriracha: For that perfect spicy kick.
Green onions & cilantro: Fresh garnishes to brighten up the dish.
Crushed peanuts: For added crunch.

Substitutions & Alternatives

Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if preferred.
Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Adjust spice levels with more or less red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
Add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Spicy Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Add warm water as needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

3. Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the peanut sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add your favorite protein or vegetables at this stage.

4. Garnish & Serve

Top with green onions, cilantro, crushed peanuts, and an extra drizzle of Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips for the Best Spicy Peanut Noodles

Use Freshly Grated Ginger & Garlic – This enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Thin the Sauce as Needed – Adjust with warm water for a silky, smooth texture.
Customize the Heat Level – Start with a small amount of spice and add more to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm or cold for a versatile meal.
Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad.
Add extra protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerating & Freezing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Enjoy cold for a refreshing noodle salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The peanut sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

What vegetables work best in this dish?

Bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and snap peas add great crunch and freshness.

Can I make this nut-free?

Absolutely! Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Peanut Noodles are a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and let me know how you make it your own—share your favorite additions in the comments!

Spicy Peanut Noodles: A Bold and Flavorful Dish

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Author: Lily Carter
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Bold, creamy, and packed with spice, these Spicy Peanut Noodles come together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this dish is easily customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables. Enjoy it warm or cold for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Instructions

Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
Make the Peanut Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add warm water as needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the peanut sauce. Add your choice of protein and vegetables, tossing to coat evenly.
Garnish & Serve
Top with green onions, cilantro, and crushed peanuts. Drizzle with extra Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of peanut butter.
Adjust spice levels by adding more or less red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
Thin the sauce as needed with extra warm water for a smooth, silky texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 380
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 12g