Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare glass noodles according to package directions, typically soaking in hot water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly, rinse under cold water, and cut into shorter lengths with kitchen scissors.
- While noodles soak, prepare all vegetables by julienning carrots and cucumber into thin matchsticks, shredding cabbage finely, and slicing bell pepper into thin strips. Slice green onions diagonally.
- Make the peanut dressing by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a medium bowl.
- Gradually add warm water to the dressing, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled glass noodles with all prepared vegetables. Roughly chop cilantro and tear mint leaves, adding them to the bowl.
- Pour three-quarters of the peanut dressing over the noodle mixture. Using tongs or hands, gently toss everything together until noodles are coated and vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Transfer salad to serving bowl or individual plates. Top generously with crushed roasted peanuts and toasted sesame seeds if using.
- Drizzle remaining dressing over the top and garnish with additional fresh herbs and lime wedges. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For meal prep, store components separately - noodles and vegetables in one container, dressing in another, and garnishes in a third. Toss together just before serving. The salad is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.