Description
A refreshing and zesty cilantro lime noodle salad featuring tender rice noodles tossed in a bright lime garlic dressing, enhanced with fresh cilantro, optional chili heat, crunchy nuts, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for a quick and light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 200g thin rice noodles or spaghetti
Dressing
- Juice of 2 fresh limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
Add-Ins and Toppings
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chili flakes or fresh chilies, to taste
- Chopped peanuts or cashews (for crunch)
- Shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas (for extra vegetables)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil your chosen noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set the noodles aside to cool slightly before mixing.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, soy sauce (or tamari), and your choice of olive oil or sesame oil until the mixture is well combined and aromatic, forming the flavorful dressing.
- Combine Noodles and Dressing: Gently toss the cooled noodles with the prepared dressing, ensuring each strand is evenly coated with the zesty and savory mixture for balanced flavor throughout.
- Add Fresh Cilantro and Optional Toppings: Stir in the finely chopped fresh cilantro. For added heat and texture, sprinkle in chili flakes or fresh chilies, as well as chopped peanuts or cashews for crunch. Incorporate shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas if desired for extra freshness and color.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the noodles immediately for a slightly warm salad, or chill briefly in the refrigerator if you prefer a cool noodle salad. Adjust seasoning with salt or additional lime juice as needed before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free tamari to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- This dish can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for different preferences.
- For added protein, consider topping with grilled shrimp or tofu.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your preferred level of spice.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; toss again before serving.
