Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

Always taste your dressing before mixing it in with the noodles so you can adjust the seasoning as needed.

For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

To keep the noodles from clumping after rinsing, drizzle a little sesame oil over them and toss gently.

Add some chopped cilantro or mint for a burst of fresh flavor.

If you want a bit of heat, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing.

Serving noodle salads chilled enhances the flavors. Consider making the salad enough in advance that you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or longer) before serving.

For extra crunch, add toasted peanuts or chopped cashews on top just before serving.

Adjust the amount of sesame seeds to taste; feel free to mix black and white sesame seeds for visual appeal.

What are soba noodles?

Soba noodles are thin Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour, giving them a distinct nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture.

Can I use a different type of noodle instead of soba?

You can substitute soba noodles with other types of noodles like udon, rice noodles, or even whole wheat spaghetti, but this will alter the flavor and texture of the dish somewhat.

What is mirin and can I substitute it?

Mirin is a sweet Japanese rice wine used in cooking to add flavor and a hint of sweetness. You can substitute it with a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar or a sweet white wine if you can't find mirin.

Why do I need to rinse the soba noodles?

Rinsing the soba noodles in cold water helps to stop the cooking process, removes excess starch, and prevents the noodles from becoming gummy.

How do I know when the soba noodles are done cooking?

Soba noodles typically cook in about 4-6 minutes. Test them by tasting; they should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the soba noodles and dressing in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and toss them together right before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to the noodle salad?

You can add vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The noodles may soften in texture but will still be flavorful.

Can I freeze cold sesame noodle salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles and vegetables can deteriorate upon thawing.

How can I adjust the flavor of the dressing?

You can tweak the dressing by adding more soy sauce for saltiness, more vinegar for tang, or even a touch of chili oil for heat.

What if I don't have a blender?

If you don't have a blender, you can finely grind the toasted sesame seeds in a mortar and pestle or use a spice grinder, then mix the dressing by hand in a bowl.

Can sesame oil be used in place of vegetable oil?

Yes, sesame oil can impart a stronger sesame flavor to the dish, but use it sparingly, as it can be quite potent. You'll want to combine it with some kind of neutral oil (in other words, don't use all sesame oil in place of vegetable oil).

Large Pot: For boiling water to cook the soba noodles. A large pot is needed to hold the noodles and allow them to cook evenly without crowding (they can become gummy otherwise).

Colander: To drain the cooked soba noodles after boiling. A colander allows excess water to be removed easily while rinsing the noodles under cold water to chill them.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as sesame seeds, vegetable oil, soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, and salt.

Non-stick Skillet: For toasting the sesame seeds. A non-stick surface helps prevent the seeds from sticking and burning during the toasting process.

Blender: To process the toasted sesame seeds and combine them with the oil, soy sauce, mirin, and rice vinegar to create the dressing.

Large Bowl: To combine the cooked soba noodles with the dressing. The bowl must be spacious enough to allow for thorough mixing without making a mess.

Spatula or Spoon: For tossing the noodles with the dressing.

Knife: For trimming the ends of the spring onions and finely slicing both the white and green parts.

Cutting Board: To provide a stable surface for slicing the spring onions.

Grilled Chicken: Serve the cold soba noodles alongside juicy beer and soy sauce grilled chicken. The smoky flavor of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the subtle nuttiness of the sesame noodles.

Tempura Vegetables: Pair with light and crispy tempura vegetables for a fantastic texture contrast. The crunchiness and slight oiliness of tempura complement the refreshing cold noodles wonderfully.

Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can balance the cold soba salad perfectly. The umami flavor of the miso broth adds depth to the meal and enhances the overall experience.

Seared Tuna: Top the noodles with slices of seared tuna for an elegant twist. The richness and natural sweetness of the tuna go well with the savory dressing of the noodles.

Pickled Vegetables: Serve some pickled vegetables on the side to add a tangy crunch. Their bright acidity will cut through the richness of the sesame seeds, refreshing your palate.

Cucumber Salad: A spicy cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil would be a refreshing side that echoes the flavors of the soba but adds a crisp element.

Grilled Shrimp: Skewered grilled shrimp brushed with a light teriyaki glaze would add a touch of sweetness and a lovely charred flavor that balances the noodles nicely.

Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil can bring some heat to the noodles if you're looking to spice things up.

Sliced Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes offer a crisp and peppery bite that contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles.