Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4
This Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Soba Noodle Salad is a light and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Packed with fresh vegetables, buckwheat soba noodles, and a tangy sesame dressing, this salad is both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this vibrant dish!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces of soba noodles
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of edamame, shelled and cooked
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Soba Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes, until tender.
- Rinse and Drain: Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Julienne the Vegetables: Julienne the cucumber, carrot, and red bell pepper. Thinly slice the red cabbage and green onions. Cook and shell the edamame if not already done.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the julienned cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, red cabbage, edamame, and green onions. Add the chopped fresh cilantro.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Combine Noodles and Vegetables: Add the cooked soba noodles to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Plate the Salad: Divide the soba noodle salad among serving bowls.
- Garnish: Garnish each serving with sesame seeds, additional chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately, either chilled or at room temperature.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this fresh and flavorful vegan soba noodle salad!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Protein: Add some baked tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for added protein.
- Different Vegetables: Substitute or add other vegetables like snap peas, avocado, or spinach for variety.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing for more heat.
- Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted peanuts or cashews on top for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
This soba noodle salad is rich in vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables, while the soba noodles provide a good source of complex carbohydrates and protein. The sesame dressing adds healthy fats, making this salad both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If needed, you can refresh the flavors with an extra splash of soy sauce or lime juice before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Soup: Pair with a bowl of miso soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
- As a Side: Serve as a side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired main courses.
- For Meal Prep: This salad is great for meal prep. Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before eating for a quick and healthy lunch.
This Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Soba Noodle Salad is a wonderful way to enjoy a light and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender soba noodles, and tangy sesame dressing creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends. Happy cooking!
