Chilled Peanut Noodles with Fresh Veggies

Cool Chinese Noodles in Peanut Sauce

Recipe Overview:

• Name: Cool Chinese Noodles in Peanut Sauce
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Description: This recipe for Cool Chinese Noodles in Peanut Sauce is perfect for a refreshing and delightful summer dish that combines the robust flavors of peanut butter with the delicate and fresh taste of cucumbers, carrots, and green onions.
• Category: Peanut Butter
• Keywords: Chinese, Asian, Summer, Quick (< 30 minutes)
• Rating: 4.5 (Based on 4 Reviews)
• Calories: 994.3 kcal per serving
• Fat Content: 74.5 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 11.4 g
• Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
• Sodium Content: 2735.9 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 65.2 g
• Fiber Content: 6.2 g
• Sugar Content: 20.8 g
• Protein Content: 19.4 g
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1. Spaghetti: 8 oz
2. Fettuccine Pasta: 2 oz
3. Peanut Butter: 6 tablespoons
4. Water: 1/4 cup
5. Soy Sauce: 9 tablespoons
6. Tahini: 6 tablespoons
7. Sherry Wine: 1/2 tablespoon
8. Honey: 2 tablespoons
9. Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
10. Fresh Ginger: 1/4 inch, grated
11. Hot Water: 4 tablespoons
12. Carrot: 2, peeled into short shavings about 4 inches long
13. Cucumber: 1-2, thinly sliced or julienned
14. Green Onions: 1/2 cup, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

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   • In a large pot of boiling water over medium heat, cook both the spaghetti and fettuccine until barely tender but still firm. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
   • Drain immediately and rinse with cold water until the noodles are cold.
   • Drain well and toss the noodles with 2 tablespoons of dark sesame oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a blender, combine peanut butter, water, soy sauce, tahini, sherry wine, honey, garlic, and fresh ginger. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
   • Gradually add the hot water to thin the dressing to the consistency of whipping cream. You might need more or less water depending on your desired consistency.

3. Garnish Preparation:

   • Using a vegetable peeler, peel the carrot into short, thin shavings approximately 4 inches long.
   • Thinly slice or julienne the cucumber.
   • Thinly slice the green onions.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Just before serving, toss the cooked noodles with the prepared peanut sauce dressing until well coated.
   • Arrange the noodles on a serving platter or individual plates.
   • Garnish with the shaved carrot, sliced cucumber, and green onions.
   • Serve the noodles cold.

Detailed Discussion:

The Harmony of Ingredients:

• Spaghetti & Fettuccine: This unusual combination adds texture variety, with the spaghetti providing a thin, delicate feel and the fettuccine adding a broader, more substantial bite. It’s an innovative twist on traditional noodle dishes.

• Peanut Butter & Tahini: Both rich and nutty, these provide the creamy base for the sauce. Peanut butter offers a classic, sweet flavor, while tahini adds a slightly bitter, deep nuttiness that complements and balances the sauce.

• Soy Sauce & Sherry Wine: These contribute to the umami depth and subtle sweetness, elevating the sauce with a sophisticated blend of flavors.

• Honey: Adds a natural sweetness to counterbalance the salty soy sauce and rich peanut butter, creating a harmonious blend that’s pleasing to the palate.

• Garlic & Fresh Ginger: These add a punchy freshness and a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making it more vibrant and complex.

• Vegetables (Carrot, Cucumber, Green Onions): These fresh, crunchy elements contrast beautifully with the creamy noodles, providing both visual appeal and textural diversity. The carrots and cucumbers add a refreshing crispness, while the green onions offer a mild, zesty flavor.

Nutritional Considerations:

• Calories: At 994.3 kcal per serving, this dish is relatively high in calories, making it a hearty meal option. It’s perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner, especially when served with a side salad or light soup.

• Fat Content: The high-fat content (74.5 g) is primarily due to the peanut butter and tahini, which provide healthy fats. It’s important for those who are calorie-conscious or following a low-fat diet to be aware of this.

• Sodium Content: With 2735.9 mg of sodium per serving, this dish is on the higher side. Adjusting the amount of soy sauce or using a low-sodium version can help reduce the sodium content.

• Carbohydrates: The noodles contribute significantly to the carbohydrate content (65.2 g), making this a substantial meal that provides energy and keeps you full longer.

• Protein: With 19.4 g of protein per serving, this dish also offers a good amount of protein, thanks to the peanut butter and tahini.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Complement this dish with a light side salad, perhaps a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette. A bowl of miso soup or a clear broth with a few vegetables would also be a good addition.

• Beverage Pairing: A chilled white wine like a Riesling or a light, fruity rosé would pair well with the rich peanut sauce. For non-alcoholic options, consider iced green tea or a citrusy lemonade to complement the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.

• Garnishes: To enhance the presentation and flavor, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts over the top. A few sprigs of fresh cilantro or mint can also add a burst of color and a fresh aroma.

Variations and Tips:

• Noodle Substitution: Feel free to use different types of noodles such as soba, udon, or rice noodles, depending on your preference or dietary needs.

• Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for extra protein. This can transform the dish into a more complete meal.

• Vegetarian/Vegan Options: Ensure that all ingredients, especially the noodles, are vegan if necessary. Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version of the dressing.

Final Thoughts:

The Cool Chinese Noodles in Peanut Sauce is a versatile and satisfying dish, ideal for hot summer days when you crave something refreshing yet fulfilling. The combination of creamy, nutty sauce with fresh, crunchy vegetables creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. This recipe is quick to prepare and serves as a fantastic base for culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary requirements. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together the richness of peanuts and the freshness of summer vegetables in a harmonious, cool, and creamy ensemble!