Vegan Peanut Noodle Salad
This vibrant, refreshing salad is loaded with crunchy vegetables, tender rice noodles, and a flavorful peanut sauce. It’s perfect as a light lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced into matchsticks
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin sauce)
- 1 tsp Sriracha or chili flakes (optional for spice)
Instructions:
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Veggies: While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables by slicing the cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. Chop the cilantro and green onions.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, and Sriracha (if using). Add water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss to combine evenly.
- Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, chopped peanuts, and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate and serve chilled.
Tips:
- Customize: You can add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even edamame for extra protein.
- Spice it up: For those who love heat, add more Sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Nut-free option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini if needed.
- Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge for 1-2 days, making it a great meal-prep option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
This Vegan Peanut Noodle Salad is a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal, offering a balance of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner!
