Name: Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 serving soba noodles (such as Lotus Foods soba noodles); 1/2 cup frozen edamame, cooked; 1 medium carrot, grated; 1 cup purple cabbage or green cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 medium green onion, thinly sliced on a bias; 1 handful cilantro, finely minced; 1/4 cup peanuts or cashews, roughly chopped; Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish; 1 tbsp peanut butter or sunflower butter; 1 tbsp liquid aminos or soy sauce; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp rice vinegar; 1 medium garlic clove, finely minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely minced; 1/4 tsp chili flakes; 1 tbsp water (to thin out dressing); Kosher salt, about 1/4 tsp (to taste)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that’s both refreshing and packed with bold flavors, the Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad is a perfect choice. This vibrant dish combines the nutty, chewy texture of soba noodles with crunchy fresh vegetables like shredded carrots and thinly sliced cabbage. Edamame adds a satisfying protein boost, while the fresh cilantro and green onions bring brightness and freshness. What really makes this salad stand out is the creamy, spicy peanut dressing that coats every bite, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and heat.

Ideal for a light lunch, quick dinner, or meal prep, this salad can be whipped up in minutes and served cold or at room temperature. The peanut dressing is easy to customize—whether you want it a bit spicier, sweeter, or tangier—and the ingredients can be adjusted to your preferences or dietary needs. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors or just looking for a nutritious, tasty noodle salad, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients and minimal cooking.

Bold and Balanced Flavors

The spicy peanut dressing perfectly combines heat, sweetness, and acidity.

Nutritious and Filling

Includes protein-rich edamame and nutrient-dense vegetables for a balanced meal.

Versatile and Customizable

Swap veggies or nuts to suit your taste or dietary restrictions.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Holds up well in the fridge and tastes great cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients

Soba noodles
Frozen edamame
Carrot
Purple or green cabbage
Green onion
Cilantro
Peanuts or cashews
Toasted sesame seeds
Peanut butter or sunflower butter
Liquid aminos or soy sauce
Lemon juice
Honey or maple syrup
Rice vinegar
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Chili flakes
Water
Kosher salt

Variations

Use Different Noodles

Try rice noodles or whole wheat spaghetti if you don’t have soba.

Add More Veggies

Bell peppers, snap peas, or cucumber add extra crunch and color.

Make It Vegan

Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your soy sauce is vegan.

Adjust the Heat

Add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha if you want it spicier.

Swap Nuts

Almonds or walnuts can replace peanuts or cashews depending on preference.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2

Prepare the vegetables: grate the carrot, thinly slice the cabbage and green onion, and mince the cilantro.

Step 3

Cook the frozen edamame as per package instructions and drain well.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, liquid aminos, lemon juice, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, water, and kosher salt until smooth.

Step 5

In a large bowl, combine the cooked soba noodles, edamame, carrot, cabbage, green onion, and cilantro. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.

Step 6

Top with chopped peanuts or cashews and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Soba noodles cook quickly and should be rinsed with cold water immediately to prevent sticking.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh garlic and ginger make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dressing.

Toast Your Nuts

Briefly toast the peanuts or cashews to deepen their flavor and add crunch.

Taste and Adjust

Always taste the dressing and adjust salt, sweetness, or heat before mixing.

Serve Chilled or Room Temperature

This salad is delicious either way, making it great for meal prep or last-minute meals.

How to Serve

Serve this Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad as a light lunch or side dish alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or seafood. It’s a great addition to any Asian-inspired meal or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying vegetarian option. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an added pop of freshness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you prefer to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Due to the fresh vegetables and dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended as it can alter texture and flavor.

Reheating

Serve cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, gently reheat without the dressing and add it fresh before serving.

FAQs

Can I use peanut butter powder instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, you can rehydrate peanut butter powder with water to make the dressing.

What can I substitute for edamame?

Green peas or chickpeas are good protein-rich alternatives.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free tamari or soy sauce and ensure your soba noodles are 100% buckwheat.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store the dressing separately and toss just before serving for best texture.

Can I make the dressing without honey?

Yes, use maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.

How spicy is the salad?

It has a mild to moderate heat level, but you can adjust chili flakes to your liking.

Can I add protein to make this a full meal?

Absolutely—grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp work great.

How long do leftovers last?

Up to 3 days refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh ginger paste instead of fresh ginger?

Yes, fresh ginger paste works fine—adjust quantity to taste.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover salad?

Reheat noodles and veggies gently without dressing, then add dressing fresh before eating.

Conclusion

Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for those craving a fresh and satisfying meal with a kick. Combining tender soba noodles with crunchy vegetables and a creamy, tangy peanut dressing, this salad works well for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Its versatility and vibrant flavors make it a standout choice in any recipe collection, ready to please a wide variety of tastes and dietary needs.