Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber
If you're looking for a quick, easy, and insanely delicious meal that packs a punch, look no further than spicy peanut noodles with cucumber. This dish combines the richness of peanut butter with the tang of soy sauce and rice vinegar, honey's sweetness, sriracha’s heat, and the freshness of cucumbers, cilantro, and green onions.
At the center of this dish is the creamy peanut sauce, which is made with just a few simple ingredients. Creamy peanut butter provides a nutty base, while soy sauce adds saltiness and umami. Rice vinegar brings a bright acidity, honey or sugar offers a touch of sweetness, and chili garlic sauce or sriracha delivers a fiery kick. A drizzle of sesame oil and a hint of garlic and ginger round out the sauce, creating a complex and addictive flavor profile.
The noodles, whether you choose ramen or stir-fried noodles, act as a blank canvas for the vibrant sauce. They soak up all the delicious flavors, while still maintaining their chewy texture. The diced cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch, while the chopped cilantro and sliced green onions add a burst of freshness and a hint of oniony flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nutty aroma and a subtle crunch.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the level of spice to your liking, add protein like tofu or chicken, or even swap out the cucumbers for other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless, but the result is always a satisfying and flavorful meal that will leave you craving more.
So next time you're in need of a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or a fun and flavorful lunch, give spicy peanut noodles with cucumber a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber
Ingredients
- 6 oz of ramen or stir-fried noodles
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 2 persian cucumbers, diced
- fresh cilantro, chopped
- green onions, sliced
- sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Add the cooked noodles and cucumbers to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve warm, topped with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
