Asian noodle salad

Asian noodle salad features hearty noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing that combines soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. This vibrant dish is perfect as a main course or side, offering a refreshing, satisfying blend of textures and flavours.

24 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta
1 cup carrots
1 cup red pepper
2 cups mung beans
3 cucumbers
3 onions
1 tbsp coriander leaves
6 cups cabbage
6 cups red cabbage
1 cup kale
2 cups peanuts
8 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup oyster sauce
1/2 cup vinegar
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 tbsp ginger root
2 tbsp sesame oil
3 garlic cloves

Asian noodle salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together a delightful blend of crunchy vegetables, hearty noodles, and a tangy dressing. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for any meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and Asian-inspired flavors ensures that every bite is packed with taste and texture.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine the julienned carrots, thinly sliced red pepper, mung bean sprouts, sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced onions, shredded green and red cabbage, and chopped kale.
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture.

3. Make the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the grated ginger, sesame oil, and minced garlic to the mixture. Whisk again until the dressing is thoroughly mixed.

4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.

5. Add Crunch:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top of the salad.

6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the salad with the chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve the salad cold, directly from the fridge or at room temperature.

This Asian noodle salad is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to your favorite Asian-inspired meals. With its mix of fresh vegetables, hearty noodles, and a flavorful dressing, it offers a satisfying and nutritious meal option. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this delightful salad, and feel free to customize it to your preference.

Asian noodle salad FAQ:

What pasta can I use for this Asian noodle salad?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but rice noodles or soba noodles are traditional choices for Asian salads. Regular pasta works well too; just ensure it’s cooked al dente.

How long can I store the Asian noodle salad?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to add the peanuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

What are some good substitutes for the oyster sauce?

If you're looking for a substitute, consider using hoisin sauce or a vegan alternative like mushroom soy sauce. You can also omit it, but the salad may lose some depth of flavor.

How do I know when the pasta is cooked properly?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which means firm to the bite. Be sure to drain and rinse it under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process.

Can I use other vegetables in this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or edamame for added flavor and crunch. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain balance.

Tips:

- Cook the pasta until it is al dente, and then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the noodles firm.

- Julienne or thinly slice the vegetables to ensure they mix well with the noodles and provide a consistent texture in every bite.

- Toast the peanuts lightly before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

- Prepare the dressing in advance and let it sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld together before tossing it with the salad.

- For added freshness, consider garnishing the salad with extra coriander leaves and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 630kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 77g
Fiber 12g
Sugar 27g
Fat 50g

Asian noodle salad