The Best Thai Noodle Salad (Vegan!)

Short Description

This Thai Noodle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish packed with crunchy vegetables, rice noodles, and a creamy peanut dressing. Completely vegan and bursting with bold flavors, it’s the perfect dish for a light lunch, meal prep, or a flavorful side. This salad combines the sweetness of carrots, the crunch of bell peppers, and the nuttiness of peanuts, making it a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Completely Vegan – Perfect for plant-based eaters, this dish is entirely free from animal products.
• Bursting with Flavor – The combination of tangy, sweet, and spicy elements creates a deliciously complex taste.
• Quick and Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy days.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days, allowing for easy make-ahead lunches.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different veggies, proteins, or spice levels.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Full of vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• Rice noodles
• Carrots
• Red bell pepper
• Cabbage
• Cucumber
• Scallions
• Fresh cilantro
• Roasted peanuts
• Sesame seeds
• Lime juice
• Peanut butter
• Soy sauce
• Maple syrup or agave
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Sriracha or chili paste
• Sesame oil
• Water

Directions

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking and set aside.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Thinly slice the carrots, red bell pepper, cabbage, and cucumber. Chop the scallions and cilantro.
3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sriracha, sesame oil, and water until smooth.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, chopped vegetables, and dressing. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and extra cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor.

Variations

• Add Protein: Include tofu, tempeh, or edamame for added plant-based protein.
• Different Noodles: Try soba noodles, whole wheat spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles for a twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and swap peanuts for toasted pumpkin seeds.
• Spice it Up: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Extra Crunch: Add shredded red cabbage or water chestnuts for additional texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer warm noodles, lightly heat in a pan for a few minutes. If the dressing thickens, add a splash of water or lime juice before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store the dressing separately and toss it with the noodles and veggies before serving for the freshest taste.

What type of noodles work best?

Rice noodles are ideal, but soba or whole wheat spaghetti can also work.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I add more protein?

Yes! Tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh make excellent protein additions.

Is this salad spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust by adding more or less sriracha.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter works well as a substitute.

What vegetables can I use?

Any crunchy vegetables like snap peas, shredded Brussels sprouts, or radishes.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended as the noodles and veggies may become mushy when thawed.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with spring rolls, grilled tofu, or a side of edamame.

Conclusion

This Vegan Thai Noodle Salad is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or preparing a quick lunch, this salad is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, plant-based meal!

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