Cold Sesame Noodle Bowl Cucumber (Printable)

Chilled noodles, sesame sauce, crisp cucumber, herbs. Quick, vibrant, refreshing meal for hot days.

# What You'll Need:

→ Noodles

01 - 10 oz thin wheat noodles or soba noodles
02 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

→ Sesame Sauce

03 - 3 tablespoons tahini or smooth peanut butter
04 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce, low-sodium preferred
05 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
06 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
07 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
08 - 1 clove garlic, finely grated
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
10 - 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed

→ Vegetables and Toppings

11 - 1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
12 - 2 medium carrots, julienned
13 - 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
14 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
15 - 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
17 - Lime wedges, to serve

# Directions:

01 - Prepare noodles according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water until completely chilled. Toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini or peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and 2 tablespoons water. Gradually add more water if needed to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
03 - Divide chilled noodles among serving bowls. Generously drizzle with sesame sauce.
04 - Top with cucumber, carrots, and spring onions. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and chili if desired.
05 - Provide lime wedges alongside for squeezing over the bowls just before eating.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes as bright and refreshing as it looks, giving you that 'perfect summer lunch' feeling without fuss.
  • The creamy sesame sauce is addictively good, and it's easy to adapt with what you have at home.
02 -
  • Skipping the rinse leaves your noodles gluey—always run plenty of water over them.
  • Let the sauce sit for a few minutes after whisking—the flavors meld and taste even better.
03 -
  • If you prepare the sauce ahead, chill it for extra depth and easier mixing.
  • Always slice veggies just before serving so their crunch shines in every bite.
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