Description
These Cold Sesame Noodle Cups are a fun, refreshing make-ahead snack or light lunch featuring tender noodles tossed in a creamy sesame-soy dressing, topped with crunchy vegetables and sesame seeds for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti, soba noodles, or rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For the Sesame Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water, as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha, optional
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Prevent sticking: Toss the cooled noodles with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to keep them separated and add flavor.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and optional sriracha to combine all the flavors.
- Adjust dressing consistency: Add warm water one tablespoon at a time to the dressing until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency that will coat the noodles evenly.
- Toss noodles with dressing: Mix the cooled noodles thoroughly with the sesame dressing so every strand is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the cups: Divide the dressed noodles evenly among small cups or containers for individual servings.
- Add toppings: Garnish each noodle cup with shredded carrots, thinly sliced cucumber, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch and color.
- Chill before serving: Refrigerate the noodle cups for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve chilled for a refreshing snack or light meal.
Notes
- Soba or rice noodles work especially well for this recipe due to their texture and flavor.
- For added protein, consider mixing in shredded chicken, edamame, or tofu.
- Store the noodle cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- If the noodles become too firm or sticky after refrigeration, toss them with a splash of water before serving to loosen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
