Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
If your taste buds crave bold flavors and lively colors, this Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is the dish your summer has been missing. This vibrant vegetarian salad brings together chewy noodles, crisp veggies, and a creamy peanut-lime dressing that’s as irresistible as it is easy to make. Packed with fresh textures and a sweet-spicy kick, it’s the kind of crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself making on repeat — for picnics, potlucks, or just an easy dinner at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is how it celebrates the magic of simple, everyday ingredients. Each component brings something special to the bowl: a little crunch, a splash of color, or a punchy burst of flavor. Let’s break down what makes every bite so delicious.
- Rice noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): The chewy, slurpable base that soaks up every drop of that punchy peanut dressing.
- Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Adds vibrant color and an irresistible crunch.
- Julienned carrots (1 cup): Sweet and crisp, they balance the richness of the dressing and add a pop of orange.
- Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1): For juicy sweetness and an additional rainbow hue.
- Sliced cucumber (1/2 cup): Cool, refreshing, and perfect for balancing the spice.
- Green onions, sliced (2): Lend a sharp, savory tang that weaves through each bite.
- Chopped cilantro (1/4 cup): Fresh and herby for a burst of zingy flavor.
- Roasted peanuts, chopped (1/4 cup): The ultimate crunchy topping and a natural pairing for the creamy dressing.
- Sesame seeds (1 tbsp, optional): For sparkle and an extra nutty note.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/4 cup): The heart of your spicy peanut dressing, making it luscious and rich.
- Soy sauce (1 1/2 tbsp): Deep umami flavor; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds tang and brightens the overall taste.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp): Zesty and sharp, it cuts through the richness.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tbsp): A touch of sweetness to round out the dressing.
- Sesame oil (1 tsp): Nutty and aromatic—just a dash goes a long way.
- Garlic, minced (1 clove): For an irresistible savory note.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
- Sriracha (1–2 tsp, to taste): Crank up the heat or keep it mild—totally your call!
- Warm water (2–3 tbsp): Loosens the dressing to the ideal drizzly consistency.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by cooking your chosen noodles according to the package directions. Rice noodles are especially lovely for their springy texture, but regular spaghetti works in a pinch. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to cool—this stops the cooking process and ensures your Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is refreshingly chilled.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Spicy Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, add creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha. Gradually whisk in warm water, starting with 2 tablespoons, until the dressing is silky, smooth, and pourable. Taste and adjust the heat with more sriracha if you’re feeling bold!
Step 3: Prep and Combine the Veggies
Grab your largest salad bowl and combine the cooled noodles, cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro. This is your crunchy, colorful canvas for the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe, so let those fresh veggies shine.
Step 4: Toss Everything with the Dressing
Pour the entire batch of spicy peanut dressing over the noodles and veggies. Using tongs or clean hands, toss well until every ribbon of cabbage and strand of noodle is slick and glossy. Don’t be shy—thorough mixing ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle the salad with chopped roasted peanuts and, if you like, a shower of sesame seeds. Serve your masterpiece chilled or at room temperature, and get ready for a stampede at the dinner table.
How to Serve Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Boost both flavor and visual appeal by topping your Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe with an extra handful of chopped cilantro, roasted peanuts, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. A few lime wedges on the side make it easy for everyone to dial up the zing as they wish.
Side Dishes
This salad holds its own as a light main course, but if you’d like to round out the meal, try serving it with spring rolls, grilled tofu, or even a side of sticky rice. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu right on top.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer your Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe into single-serve jars for grab-and-go lunches, or pile it into a big bowl and let everyone build their own at a party. It’s also dazzling on a platter with the garnishes arranged in pretty stripes before tossing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container and give it a good toss before eating, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, since the fresh veggies lose their crunch and the noodles can turn mushy once thawed. Enjoy it fresh, or keep in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
This salad truly shines served cold or at room temperature. If you do prefer it warm, gently reheat just the noodles (not the fresh veggies) in the microwave before tossing with the dressing and veggies.
FAQs
Can I make the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or another gluten-free alternative and be sure to use certified gluten-free noodles.
What protein can I add to make this a heartier meal?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even edamame work beautifully in this recipe. Just toss your chosen protein with the salad, or serve it on the side.
How spicy is the dressing?
The heat level is totally customizable! Start with a teaspoon of sriracha in your peanut dressing, then taste and adjust until it suits your palate—whether you want a gentle tingle or full-on fire.
Can I use different vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix things up with snap peas, shredded lettuce, bean sprouts, or whatever crisp veggies you have in the fridge—the Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is endlessly flexible.
What noodles work best for this salad?
Rice noodles are traditional and gluten-free, but spaghetti, soba, or even ramen noodles make great substitutes. The key is to not overcook them and rinse well to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason this Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe is such a perennial favorite: it’s vibrant, adaptable, and full of irresistible flavor. If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a spot on your menu this week—you’re just a few fresh ingredients away from a meal that’s guaranteed to wow both you and your guests!
Print
Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad recipe is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty peanut dressing creates a satisfying meal with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
Rice Noodle Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles or spaghetti
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Spicy Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha (to taste)
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and pourable.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix noodles, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.
- Add dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Finish and serve: Top with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
- For added protein, include tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preferred level of spiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook (aside from boiling noodles)
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
