Cold rice noodles tossed in creamy peanut-lime dressing with crunchy vegetables, cilantro, and toasted peanuts.
# What Goes In:
→ Noodles
01 - 8 ounces rice noodles (or thin spaghetti)
→ Vegetables & Herbs
02 - 1 cup shredded carrots
03 - 1 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
04 - 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
05 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
06 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
07 - 1/4 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, roughly chopped
→ Peanut Lime Sauce
08 - 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
09 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce (substitute tamari for gluten-free)
10 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
12 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
13 - 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
14 - 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
15 - 1 garlic clove, minced
16 - 2 to 4 tablespoons warm water, to thin
→ Optional additions
17 - Cooked grilled chicken or firm tofu, sliced (optional for extra protein)
18 - Shredded red cabbage or snap peas for extra crunch (optional)
19 - Sriracha or crushed chili flakes, to taste (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring a large pot of water to a vigorous boil, add noodles and cook until just tender according to package directions; drain, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, lime juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger and minced garlic; add 2 tablespoons warm water and whisk until smooth, then add additional water by the tablespoon to reach a pourable consistency.
03 - While the noodles cool, shred carrots, thinly slice bell pepper and cucumber, chop cilantro and slice scallions; chop the roasted peanuts and set aside for garnish.
04 - In a large mixing bowl combine the cooled noodles, prepared vegetables and herbs; pour the peanut-lime sauce over the mixture and toss gently but thoroughly until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Divide among bowls or plates, sprinkle with chopped peanuts and extra cilantro, add optional protein if desired and serve chilled or at room temperature.
