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Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing Recipe

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4.4 from 54 reviews

This Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Peanut Sesame Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring crisp vegetables, tender soba noodles, and a creamy, tangy dressing made with peanut butter and sesame oil. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side, this salad combines Asian flavors with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups purple cabbage, finely sliced (approx ¼ of a cabbage)
  • ½ red bell pepper / capsicum, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
  • 2 green onions / spring onions, finely sliced
  • ¼ cup cilantro / coriander, finely chopped
  • 1 small broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 90 g soba noodles

Sesame Peanut Dressing

  • ¼ cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or crushed
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (juice of half a lime)
  • Pinch chili flakes (optional)
  • Pinch pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely slice the purple cabbage, red bell pepper, carrot, and green onions. Chop the cilantro and cut the broccoli into small florets. Set all aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Cook the soba noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Drain well and add to the bowl with the vegetables.
  3. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice wine vinegar, grated ginger, chopped garlic, sesame oil, light soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Toss the salad: Pour the peanut sesame dressing over the noodles and vegetables. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
  5. Serve chilled: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold as a refreshing, healthy meal or side dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
  • Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
  • For gluten-free option, use gluten-free soba noodles or substitute with rice noodles.
  • Add toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top for extra texture and garnish.
  • This salad can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian