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Cold noodle salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot days, quick lunches, backyard barbecues, or weekly meal prep. Among the many variations of this dish, the Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad stands out for its bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and simple preparation. Whether you’re vegan, health-conscious, or just looking for a tasty side dish, this cold noodle salad is a go-to recipe that’s easy to love.
Why You’ll Love Cold Noodle Salad
One of the best things about cold noodle salad is how quick and easy it is to make. With just a few simple steps and a handful of pantry staples, you can put together a delicious dish in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect last-minute option when you need something fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor or nutrition.
What makes this particular version so special is the homemade sesame ginger dressing. A blend of soy sauce, tahini or peanut butter, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a sweet, savory, and nutty flavor profile that brings everything together. The dressing is so good, you might find yourself licking the jar!
Ingredients That Make It Shine
The key to a great cold noodle salad is using fresh, flavorful ingredients that hold up well when chilled. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Noodles
- Spaghetti is the base for this recipe, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Cook it al dente to avoid sogginess.
Veggies
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch.
- Purple Cabbage: Offers a peppery taste and vibrant color.
- Shredded Carrots: Pre-shredded carrots save time and add texture.
- Edamame: Packed with protein and flavor, they make the dish more filling.
- Green Onions: Provide a fresh, mild onion bite.
Dressing
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds umami without too much salt.
- Rice Vinegar: Gives a mild tangy sweetness.
- Tahini or Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and nuttiness.
- Brown Sugar: Balances acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame Oil: Brings everything together with its aromatic flavor.
- Ground Ginger & Garlic Powder: Add warmth and depth without overpowering the flavor.
Simple Instructions, Big Flavor
Making this cold noodle salad is as easy as 1-2-3:
- Cook the Pasta
Boil the noodles until al dente, toss with olive oil, and chill in the fridge. - Prep the Veggies
Thinly slice the red pepper, cabbage, green onions, and get the edamame and carrots ready. - Make the Dressing
Add all dressing ingredients to a mason jar and shake until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the Salad
Toss the noodles and veggies in a large bowl, pour the dressing over, and mix until everything is evenly coated. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve chilled.
Pro Tips for the Best Cold Noodle Salad
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Slightly undercooked noodles hold their shape and texture better.
- Dress in stages for meal prep. If you’re storing this for the week, add only half the dressing initially and the rest just before serving.
- Keep it fresh. The salad stays good for up to 5 days in the fridge. For best results, store the noodles and dressing separately until ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cold noodle salad last in the fridge?
It’s best eaten within 4–5 days. Keep the dressing and noodles separate to avoid sogginess.
Can you freeze cold noodle salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the noodles and vegetables.
What can I substitute in the dressing?
If you don’t have tahini, peanut butter works well. You can also substitute white wine vinegar for rice vinegar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
Cold noodle salad, especially this sesame ginger version, is a truly versatile and satisfying dish. It’s vegan-friendly, packed with fresh veggies, and loaded with bold, Asian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re preparing meals for the week, feeding a crowd, or just craving something light and refreshing, this salad is a must-try.
Its ease of preparation, delicious taste, and beautiful presentation make it a standout recipe for cooks of all levels. Give it a try—you may just find your new favorite dish!
