Description
This Thai Peanut Noodle Salad is a deliciously creamy, crunchy, and refreshing dish packed with bold Thai-inspired flavors. Tossed in a rich peanut sauce with fresh, crisp vegetables and chewy noodles, this salad is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light yet satisfying lunch. It’s easy to make, naturally vegan, and ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles (or soba noodles, spaghetti)
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin out the sauce)
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
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Boil a large pot of water and cook the noodles according to package instructions.
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Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Peanut Sauce
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In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lime juice, ginger, garlic, and honey.
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Add water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
3. Assemble the Salad
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, red cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, cilantro, and green onions.
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Pour the peanut sauce over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Garnish & Serve
Top with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, and an extra squeeze of lime juice.
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Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use fresh, crunchy veggies – They add great texture and balance.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes – This enhances the flavors even more.
- Make it spicy – Add sriracha, chili flakes, or Thai bird’s eye chilies for heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g