Vegan Peanut Noodle Salad

This vibrant, refreshing salad is loaded with crunchy vegetables, tender rice noodles, and a flavorful peanut sauce. It’s perfect as a light lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients:

  • For the Salad:
    • 8 oz rice noodles
    • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
    • 1 cup julienned carrots
    • 1/2 cucumber, sliced into matchsticks
    • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    • 2 green onions, sliced
    • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
    • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
  • For the Peanut Sauce:
    • 1/4 cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
    • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
    • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
    • 1 tbsp lime juice
    • 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave
    • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    • 1-2 tbsp water (to thin sauce)
    • 1 tsp Sriracha or chili flakes (optional for spice)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Veggies: While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables by slicing the cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. Chop the cilantro and green onions.
  3. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, and Sriracha (if using). Add water a little at a time to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. Pour the peanut sauce over the top and toss to combine evenly.
  5. Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, chopped peanuts, and sesame seeds if desired.
  6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate and serve chilled.

Tips:

  • Customize: You can add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even edamame for extra protein.
  • Spice it up: For those who love heat, add more Sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
  • Nut-free option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini if needed.
  • Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge for 1-2 days, making it a great meal-prep option.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 365 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 620mg

This Vegan Peanut Noodle Salad is a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal, offering a balance of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and fiber. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner!