Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

 

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 8 ounces (about 225g) rice noodles
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
• 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
• Lime wedges for serving

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt, to taste
• Water (as needed to thin the sauce)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice Noodles:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rice noodles, thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers, julienned or grated carrot, shredded cabbage, chopped scallions, and chopped fresh cilantro.

4. Add the Peanut Sauce:

   • Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the salad ingredients in the bowl.

5. Toss Until Well Coated:

   • Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the peanut sauce.

6. Chill and Marinate (Optional):

   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
   • Refrigerate the Thai peanut noodle salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:

   • Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
   • Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and lime wedges.

8. Enjoy!

   • Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Thai peanut noodle salad as a refreshing main dish or side dish. It's perfect for lunch, dinner, picnics, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a delicious and satisfying meal!