When the summer sun blazes and the last thing I want to do is crank up the oven, this Cold Noodle Salad becomes my go-to. The refreshing crunch of thin-skinned cucumbers, paired with silky noodles, dances on your tongue in a way that feels both indulgent and light. I discovered this delightful dish during a heatwave, as I rummaged through my pantry for something vibrant to lift my spirits.
This easy recipe marries the subtle tang of rice vinegar and the aromatic warmth of ginger, making each bite feel like a mini celebration. Plus, the versatility of the ingredients means you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste—whether you’re a fan of spicy chili crisp or a more mellow herbaceous touch. Perfect for those hot days when slaving over a stove isn’t an option, this salad can easily impress at summer gatherings or simply invigorate your lunch routine. Keep reading to whip up this vibrant Cold Noodle Salad that’s sure to excite your palate!
Why love this Cold Noodle Salad?
Refreshingly Simple: With only a few ingredients, this dish is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for even novice cooks.
Bursting with Flavor: The harmony of ginger, soy sauce, and chili crisp creates a tantalizing taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
Perfect for Summer: This dish shines as a cool, no-cook option during sweltering days, ensuring you stay refreshed without heating up the kitchen.
Endless Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or noodles, allowing you to customize this salad to your culinary whims.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at potlucks or BBQs, and watch as this vibrant salad steals the show, impressing family and friends alike!
For more refreshing salad ideas, check out our delicious summer salads.
Cold Noodle Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Thin-skinned cucumbers – add crunch and hydration to your Cold Noodle Salad.
• Ramen noodles – use any type of noodles for a delightful base; soba or rice noodles work beautifully too!
For the Dressing
• Rice vinegar – adds a subtle tang, balancing the flavors perfectly.
• Sesame oil – infuses a delicious nutty aroma into your salad.
• Soy sauce – enhances the umami in the dressing; consider coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Sugar or maple syrup – a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Finely grated ginger – brings a refreshing zing that elevates the dish.
• White pepper – a pinch adds a gentle warmth, enhancing the taste without overpowering it.
For the Garnish
• Green onions – provide a fresh crunch and a mild onion flavor.
• Chili crisp – a spicy finish that transforms the salad into a flavorful masterpiece.
• Fresh mint (or basil and cilantro) – brightens the dish and adds a layer of freshness.
• Toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts – for a satisfying crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Cold Noodle Salad
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Salt the cucumbers: Start by sprinkling salt over your thin-skinned cucumbers in a colander. Let them drain for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture and enhance their crispness.
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Cook the noodles: Prepare your noodles of choice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, feel free to add a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Once cooked, drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and finely grated ginger. Whisk until well-blended, then add the chopped green onions and salted cucumbers, mixing gently.
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Combine ingredients: Fold the cooled noodles into the bowl with the dressing and vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure every strand is coated in that delicious sauce.
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Serve beautifully: Transfer your vibrant salad to a serving dish. Just before serving, drizzle the chili crisp over the top, and generously scatter torn mint leaves. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for an added crunch.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of extra sesame oil for an additional nutty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cold Noodle Salad
Cucumber Preparation: Be sure to salt the cucumbers for at least 15 minutes. This crucial step removes excess moisture, enhancing crispness and texture in the cold noodle salad.
Noodle Choice: Experiment with different noodles, like soba or rice noodles, to add variety and find your favorite pairing with the dressing.
Dressing Balance: Taste the dressing before combining it with the salad. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar to create your perfect flavor profile.
Spice Control: If you’re wary of heat, start with less chili crisp and gradually add more, letting each bite guide your spice preference in the cold noodle salad.
Fresh Herbs: Use a mix of fresh herbs for complexity. In addition to mint, consider cilantro or basil, enhancing the dish’s freshness and aromatic appeal.
Make Ahead Options
These Cold Noodle Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can salt the cucumbers and let them drain up to 24 hours in advance to maintain their crunchiness. Additionally, you can cook your noodles and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the dressing, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and ginger, then store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the chilled noodles, cucumbers, and dressing, and toss everything together. Drizzle with chili crisp and garnish right before serving for a vibrant dish that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!
Cold Noodle Salad Variations
Invite your creativity to unfold with delightful twists that can elevate this salad to new heights!
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Veggie-Packed: Add julienned bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and vibrant color.
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Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a satisfying main dish that’s perfect for dinner.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, mix in some sliced jalapeños or drizzle with Sriracha to elevate the spice level.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini to your dressing for a creamy richness that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Zesty Citrus: Add the juice of one lime or lemon for a bright citrusy zing that enhances the overall freshness of the salad.
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate toasted cashews or slivered almonds to introduce a satisfying crunch and contrasting texture.
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Herb Medley: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro and basil in with the mint for a flavor explosion that’ll transport you to a garden fresh paradise.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the noodles for zucchini noodles or spiralized squash for a lighter, gluten-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste.
How to Store and Freeze Cold Noodle Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cucumbers will retain their crunch, ensuring a fresh taste even after a day or two.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the cucumbers and noodles may become mushy upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh!
Reheating: If you find yourself needing to reheat your Cold Noodle Salad, briefly warm the noodles in the microwave for 30 seconds, then toss everything together again to keep the flavors vibrant.
What to Serve with Cold Noodle Salad?
Transform your meal experience with delightful pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this refreshing dish.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a satisfying protein element, balancing the coolness of the salad while contributing smoky notes.
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Spicy Edamame: Steamed edamame tossed in sea salt creates a delightful finger food that complements the salad’s flavors, bringing a satisfying crunch to the table.
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Sesame Ginger Dressing Salad: A fresh side salad drizzled with sesame ginger dressing mirrors the flavors in the Cold Noodle Salad, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Spring Rolls: These light, fresh rolls filled with veggies or shrimp offer a chewy texture, enhancing the meal without overpowering the salad.
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Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, this salsa adds a touch of sweetness, making it a lively partner that elevates the dish, especially on warm summer days.
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Iced Green Tea: A refreshing beverage, iced green tea provides a cooling effect and aromatic contrast, leaving your palate refreshed after each bite.
Serve any of these sides alongside your Cold Noodle Salad for a deliciously well-rounded meal that friends and family will love!
Cucumber Noodle Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use for this Cold Noodle Salad?
Absolutely! Thin-skinned cucumbers, like English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, are the best choices for this salad. Their delicate skin adds a lovely texture, and they won’t require peeling. Just make sure they are nice and firm without any dark spots or blemishes!
How should I store leftover Cold Noodle Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember, the cucumbers will retain their crunch, so your salad will still taste delightful even after a couple of days!
Can I freeze the Cold Noodle Salad?
I actually recommend against freezing this salad. The textures of the cucumbers and noodles can become mushy once thawed, which can affect the overall enjoyment of the dish. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so whip up smaller portions if you’re concerned about leftovers.
What if my noodles become sticky when cooking?
Very often, noodles can clump together if you don’t rinse them with cold water immediately after draining. After boiling, make sure to rinse them under cold water until they cool down, which not only helps with stickiness but also stops the cooking process.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this salad. For gluten-free options, substitute traditional soy sauce with coconut aminos. Additionally, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the chili crisp, as it can contain various spices and ingredients. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for all.
Can I adjust the flavors in the dressing?
Absolutely! Taste the dressing before tossing it with your salad ingredients. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, simply add a bit more sugar or maple syrup. If you like it tangy, a splash more rice vinegar will do the trick! The beauty of this Cold Noodle Salad is in its versatility.
Zesty Cold Noodle Salad with Cucumber and Fresh Herbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sprinkle salt over cucumbers in a colander and let them drain for 15 minutes.
- Prepare noodles according to package instructions, adding a pinch of salt. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, and ginger. Whisk until well-blended.
- Fold in the cooked noodles, chopped green onions, and salted cucumbers, tossing gently.
- Transfer to a serving dish, drizzle chili crisp over top, and scatter mint leaves and sesame seeds or peanuts.