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Easy Asian Sesame Noodle Salad Recipe Perfect for Summer Cookouts

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A quick and flavorful Asian sesame noodle salad perfect for summer cookouts, featuring a tangy-sweet dressing, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh veggies. This dish is served cold or at room temperature and is a crowd-pleaser with a balance of savory, nutty, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or thin Asian wheat noodles (linguine or lo mein preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (7-9 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain noodles in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool them down. Toss gently while rinsing to separate strands. Set aside to drain well.
  3. While noodles cook, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
  5. Thinly slice 3 green onions, julienne 1 medium carrot, and slice 1 small red bell pepper (if using). Set aside.
  6. In a large bowl, combine drained noodles, veggies, and dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat noodles evenly. The warmth of the noodles helps absorb the flavors.
  7. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if desired) over the salad. Toss lightly once more.
  8. Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to intensify flavors. Toss again before serving.

Notes

Toast sesame seeds for best flavor. Toss noodles with sesame oil after rinsing to prevent clumping. Adjust garlic and honey to taste. Salad can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 3 days; toss before serving to refresh flavors. For gluten-free, use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. Add protein like shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or tofu to make it a main dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian sesame noodle salad, easy noodle salad, summer cookout salad, sesame seeds, soy sauce, quick side dish, vegetarian, vegan option

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/easy-asian-sesame-noodle-salad-recipe-perfect-for-summer-cookouts/