Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing is a refreshing and healthy dish perfect for warm days or any time you’re looking for a quick meal. This salad combines nutritious ingredients with a delicious sesame dressing, making it not just tasty but also colorful and vibrant.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this cold soba noodle salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is nutritious and packed with vegetables, providing plenty of vitamins and minerals. Second, it is quick and easy to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s also versatile—you can modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most. Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep or a light lunch, and it can be served chilled, making it refreshing during warmer months.
How to Make Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
Ingredients
- 8 oz soba noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon tahini or peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1–2 tablespoons water, to thin if needed
Directions
- Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth. If needed, add water to achieve your desired consistency.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked soba noodles, shredded carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, and green onions.
- Pour the sesame dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, if desired.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
You can serve this salad as a light main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or tofu and can be plated in bowls or on a large serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for 2-3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible, to maintain the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
Tips to Make Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
- For even more flavor, allow the salad to marinate in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey or maple syrup, based on your taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or edamame for extra crunch and color.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad! Try adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu for protein. You could also substitute the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Just keep the dressing separate to keep the noodles from getting soggy.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Soba noodles are typically made from buckwheat and are generally gluten-free. However, be sure to check if you are using 100% buckwheat noodles, as some soba noodles may contain wheat.
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use a peanut sauce, soy sauce dressing, or even a vinaigrette to suit your taste.
