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Easy Cold Sesame Noodle Salad Recipe with Crisp Cucumber Perfect for Summer

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A quick and refreshing cold sesame noodle salad featuring crisp cucumber and a nutty, tangy dressing, perfect for summer picnics and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or thin wheat noodles
  • 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes or a dash of sriracha (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of spaghetti or your chosen noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 7–9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse immediately under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Toss gently to separate strands.
  3. While noodles cook, slice one medium cucumber thinly or julienne it. Scoop out watery core if desired to avoid sogginess.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon grated ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, and chili flakes or sriracha if using. Whisk until creamy and well combined.
  5. Add the cooled noodles and cucumber slices into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional cilantro on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles; rinse thoroughly with cold water to prevent clumping. Warm peanut butter slightly if too stiff for easier mixing. Adjust seasoning after tossing. Toast sesame seeds for deeper flavor. Store dressing separately if making ahead to avoid soggy noodles.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodle salad, summer salad, easy noodle salad, sesame dressing, cucumber salad, quick recipes, gluten-free option, vegan option

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/easy-cold-sesame-noodle-salad-recipe-with-crisp-cucumber-perfect-for-summer/