Refreshing Cold Soba Noodles - A Quick & Healthy Dinner Option
45
min
450
Calories
12g
Fats
67g
Carbs
21g
Protein
Discover the perfect blend of flavors with this Refreshing Cold Soba Noodles recipe. It's a dairy-free and lacto-ovo vegetarian delight that packs a punch with 21g of protein, only 12g of fat, and 450 calories per serving. Ready in just 45 minutes, it's an ideal choice for a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
Step 1: Cook the Soba Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add your soba noodles and cook them according to the package's instructions, usually for about 4 minutes. It's crucial not to overcook them to maintain that perfect noodle texture. Once done, drain the noodles and give them a good rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. This step ensures your noodles are cool, refreshing, and ready to absorb the delicious dressing we will prepare next.
Pro Tip: Stir noodles occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chile-garlic paste, minced garlic, and finely grated ginger. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic dressing that will coat the noodles beautifully, bringing a depth of flavor to the dish. The key is to whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved and the dressing is well-emulsified, ensuring each strand of noodle gets an even coating of this flavorful mixture.
Pro Tip: Adjust the chile-garlic paste according to your heat preference.
Step 3: Combine Noodles and Dressing
Transfer the cooled soba noodles to a large mixing bowl. Add the julienned carrot, thinly sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, and sesame seeds over the noodles. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the dressing and the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout. This mixing process not only combines the flavors but also allows the noodles to absorb the dressing, making every bite delicious.
Pro Tip: Use tongs or two forks to toss the noodles for an even mix.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Now that your cold soba noodle salad is ready, it's time to add the finishing touches. Serve the noodles garnished with slices of hard-cooked eggs and lime wedges on the side. The creaminess of the eggs contrasts beautifully with the zesty and savory flavors of the dish, while a squeeze of lime juice just before eating adds a bright burst of freshness. It's a dish that's as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option.
Pro Tip: Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing summer dish.
