Description
These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber are a vibrant, flavorful Asian-inspired main course perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Cold or at room temperature, the noodles are tossed in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce, then combined with refreshing cucumber and green onions for crunch. Garnished with chopped peanuts and optional fresh herbs, this vegan-friendly dish is easy to prepare and customizable with additional veggies or protein.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Vegetables & Garnish
- 1 medium cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking and cool the noodles. Set aside.
- Make the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, honey or maple syrup, warm water, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding a little more warm water if the sauce is too thick.
- Toss noodles with sauce: Add the cooled noodles to the peanut sauce and toss well until every strand is coated evenly.
- Add vegetables: Gently fold in the julienned cucumber and sliced green onions to the noodles with sauce, ensuring even distribution without bruising the cucumber.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the peanut noodles into serving bowls. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top and garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Add shredded carrots or red bell pepper for extra crunch and vibrant color.
- For additional protein, top with grilled tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
- Adjust the spice level according to your taste by using more or less chili garlic sauce.
