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Thai Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

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4.7 from 5 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Thai Noodle Salad featuring rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy peanut dressing. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side, combining crunchy textures and tangy, nutty flavors.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 8 ounces rice noodles or vermicelli
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped (for garnish)

Peanut Dressing

  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin)

Instructions

  1. Cook Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool them and stop the cooking process.
  2. Combine Vegetables and Noodles: In a large bowl, mix the cooled noodles with julienned carrots, sliced red bell pepper, julienned cucumber, shredded red cabbage, and chopped fresh cilantro.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of water until smooth and creamy.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour the peanut dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the salad for added crunch and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier dressing, add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the peanut sauce.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
  • You can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar for a vegan-friendly dressing.
  • Optional protein additions include grilled tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make it a main course.
  • To make prep easier, use pre-cut vegetables or a food processor for julienning.