Veggie Sesame Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 ounces soba noodles or spaghetti noodles of choice*
- ¼ cup raw sesame seeds
- ⅓ cup reduced sodium tamari
or soy sauce, just be sure it’s reduced sodium or it will taste too salty
- ¼ cup toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
about 1 medium lime
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic
pressed or minced
- to taste, scale back or omit if sensitive to spice½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 ½ cups thinly sliced red cabbage
about 10 ounces or ¼th medium cabbage
- 3 whole carrots
peeled and then sliced into ribbons with vegetable peeler, about 1 ½ cups
- 1 red bell pepper
sliced into very thin strips
- 1 bunch green onions
chopped
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- Optional: 2 cups shelled edamame
steamed
Directions
- 1
Cook the soba noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re done cooking, drain them in a colander and rinse them well under cool water. Transfer the drained noodles to a large serving bowl and set aside.
- 2
Meanwhile, toast the sesame seeds in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring often (keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly). Once they’re fragrant and turning golden, transfer them to a small bowl so they don’t burn. Set aside.
- 3
In another bowl, combine the tamari, sesame oil, lime juice, ginger, garlic and red pepper flakes. Whisk until blended. Set aside.
- 4
To assemble, add the cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro and optional edamame to your bowl with the noodles. Drizzle in the dressing. Add all of the sesame seeds, and use tongs to toss until the mixture is fully combined. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later. This salad is best consumed within a couple of days, but it will keep for up to 5 days.
Veggie Sesame Noodles
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Based on 110 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that's as healthy as it is easy? These Veggie Sesame Noodles pack a colorful punch, making them the perfect stress-free option for any get-together or a satisfying weeknight meal. This recipe promises delicious results with minimal fuss.
What makes these sesame noodles truly shine is the generous amount of fresh, crisp vegetables paired with a deeply savory and tangy dressing. The combination of raw sesame seeds, fresh ginger, and garlic creates an incredibly aromatic base, while lime juice provides a bright lift, elevating simple noodles into something extraordinary. This recipe is also thoughtfully crafted to be both vegetarian/vegan and easily gluten-free, catering to diverse dietary needs without compromising on flavor.
You'll discover a delightful interplay of textures and tastes in every forkful. Expect tender noodles coated in a rich, nutty, and slightly spicy sauce, beautifully contrasted by the crunch of thinly sliced red cabbage, vibrant carrot ribbons, and crisp red bell pepper strips. The fresh cilantro and green onions add a bright, herbaceous finish, making the dish feel light yet incredibly satisfying. This is a dish that looks as good as it tastes, with its rainbow of ingredients promising a refreshing and fulfilling eating experience that's both healthy and hearty.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to tailor these noodles to your pantry or preference.
- For noodles, soba noodles offer a traditional Japanese flair, but any spaghetti noodle of your choice works wonderfully.
- Adjust the spice level by scaling back or omitting the red pepper flakes entirely if you're sensitive to heat, or add a bit more for an extra kick.
- Boost the protein by including the optional shelled edamame, which adds a lovely bite and makes the dish even more substantial.
- If you don't have tamari, you can use regular soy sauce, but remember to ensure it's reduced sodium to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty.
These Veggie Sesame Noodles are wonderfully versatile. They make an excellent side dish for potlucks and gatherings, thanks to their vibrant appearance and universal appeal. You can also enjoy them as a light lunch or a satisfying vegetarian main course.