![- Rice noodles and fresh vegetables - 8 oz rice noodles: They serve as the base of the salad. - 1 cup shredded carrots: These add crunch and sweetness. - 1 red bell pepper, sliced thin: This brings color and flavor. - 1 cup shredded red cabbage: It adds a nice crunch and color. - 1 cup cucumber, julienned: This gives a refreshing taste. - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: It adds a burst of herbal flavor. - 1/4 cup scallions, sliced (green parts only): These provide a mild onion flavor. - 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts: They give a nutty crunch. - Essential items for the dressing - 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter: This is the heart of the dressing. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce: It adds saltiness and depth. - 2 tablespoons lime juice: This adds a tangy brightness. - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: It brings sweetness to balance flavors. - 1-2 teaspoons sriracha: Adjust this for your spice level. - 1 tablespoon sesame oil: It gives a nutty aroma. - Water: Use this to thin the dressing if needed. - Optional toppings and garnishes - Additional chopped roasted peanuts: For extra crunch. - Fresh cilantro leaves: For vibrant color. - Lime wedges: To squeeze over the salad for added zing. This salad is a mix of flavors and textures. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your taste. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. To start, boil a large pot of water. Once it boils, add 8 oz of rice noodles. Cook them for about 4-6 minutes. You want them to be tender but still firm. After cooking, drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. This also helps keep them from sticking together. Set the noodles aside for later. Next, grab a large mixing bowl. Chop your fresh vegetables: 1 cup of shredded carrots, 1 red bell pepper (sliced thin), 1 cup of shredded red cabbage, and 1 cup of julienned cucumber. Add 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro and 1/4 cup of sliced scallions. Toss all the veggies together until mixed well. For the dressing, take a separate bowl. Whisk together 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of lime juice. Add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha for heat. Don't forget 1 tablespoon of sesame oil! If it’s too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you have a smooth dressing. Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the mixed vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything gently. Make sure the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. This creates a lovely blend of flavors in every bite. You can find the full recipe at [Full Recipe]. First, stop the cooking process right. After boiling the rice noodles, drain them. Rinse them under cold water. This cools them down and stops cooking. It’s the best way to keep them firm. To ensure the noodles don’t stick together, add a little sesame oil after rinsing. Toss the noodles gently in a bowl. This keeps them separated and ready for mixing. Sriracha brings heat to the dressing. You can add 1 teaspoon for mild spice. If you like it hotter, use 2 teaspoons. Feel free to adjust to match your taste. For different diets, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. This is great for nut allergies. You can also use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Presentation matters. Serve the salad in a large bowl for sharing. You can also serve in individual bowls. Top each with extra peanuts and cilantro for color and crunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or tofu for a full meal. Lime wedges on the side add a fresh touch. This makes every bite bright and zesty. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above. {{image_2}} You can easily boost your Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad with protein. Chicken is a great choice. Simply grill or sauté thin slices of chicken breast. Toss them into the salad for a hearty meal. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider tofu. Press and cube firm tofu, then pan-fry until golden. This adds a lovely texture and absorbs the flavors of the salad. Both chicken and tofu pair well with the spicy peanut dressing. Feel free to get creative with the veggies in your salad. Other great options include bell peppers, snap peas, or even edamame. These add color and crunch. You can also adapt your salad based on what's in season. In summer, try fresh corn or cherry tomatoes. In fall, consider shredded Brussels sprouts or roasted sweet potatoes. Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances flavor but also supports local farms. To keep Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavors and keeps the salad crisp. It can last in the fridge for about three days. However, the longer it sits, the softer the noodles and veggies become. If you notice any changes in color or smell, it's best to toss it out. When you're ready to enjoy the salad again, you can reheat it. I recommend using the microwave, as it's quick and easy. Place the salad in a bowl and heat it for about 30 seconds. Check and stir, then heat for another 30 seconds if needed. This method keeps the flavors intact. Avoid using high heat, as it can make the noodles mushy. For a fresh taste, consider adding a splash of lime juice after reheating. You can find the Full Recipe to guide you through the preparation. The main flavors are sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy. The creamy peanut butter gives richness. Lime juice adds brightness, while soy sauce brings depth. Sriracha gives it a kick. The fresh veggies add crunch and color. Together, these flavors create a vibrant and exciting dish. Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Prepare the noodles and veggies, then store them separately. Mix them with the dressing just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy. You can also store it in the fridge for a day or two. The spice level depends on the amount of sriracha you use. Start with one teaspoon if you prefer less heat. You can always add more if you like it spicy. This flexibility makes it great for different tastes. You can use sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free option. These alternatives keep the creamy texture. They provide similar richness without allergens. Just be sure to choose a brand that fits your dietary needs. Yes, this salad can be gluten-free. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the dressing. The rice noodles are also gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your needs. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish. For the full recipe, check the details above. Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad combines vibrant ingredients for a tasty meal. We covered the main components, cooking steps, and serving tips. Remember to adjust spice levels and add proteins as you like. With proper storage, leftovers stay fresh. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and easy to customize. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own. Happy cooking!](https://emmasdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/0803dbd3-e3c3-4012-8b08-e6d7f3f1080e-250x250.webp)
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad that's perfect for any meal! With fresh veggies, tender rice noodles, and a creamy peanut dressing, this salad is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a quick, healthy option for lunch or dinner. Don't miss out on this delicious recipe—click through to explore and create your own flavorful masterpiece today!