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Creating the perfect dressing for your Crunchy Sesame Noodle Slaw is essential for achieving a harmonious blend of flavors. The dressing is not just a topping; it brings the entire dish together and enhances the freshness of the slaw. To start, combine the following ingredients in a bowl:

Crunchy Sesame Noodle Slaw

Discover the vibrant flavors of Crunchy Sesame Noodle Slaw, a perfect dish for warm weather! This refreshing recipe combines hearty soba noodles with a colorful array of fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, all coated in a tangy sesame dressing. Ideal as a side or main course, this adaptable slaw caters to various diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy its satisfying crunch. Get ready to elevate your meals with this nutritious and delicious dish!

Ingredients
  

8 oz soba noodles (or any thin noodles of your choice)

2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded

1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded

1 cup carrots, julienned

1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 cup cucumber, julienned

1/4 cup scallions, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds

1/4 cup peanuts or cashews, roughly chopped (optional for extra crunch)

Dressing:

1/3 cup sesame oil

2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, to add heat)

Instructions
 

Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically about 4-6 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the noodles are cooking, wash and prepare the vegetables. Finely shred the green and red cabbage. Julien the carrots, red bell pepper, and cucumber into thin strips. Chop the scallions and cilantro finely.

      Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili paste (if using). Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors according to your preference; you can add more soy sauce for saltiness or honey for sweetness.

        Combine the Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled soba noodles with the prepared vegetables—shredded cabbages, julienned carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, scallions, and cilantro. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure they are well combined.

          Dress the Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.

            Add Toppings: Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and the chopped peanuts or cashews (if using) on top of the slaw for an added crunchy texture. Mix lightly to incorporate just before serving.

              Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the slaw and let it sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the slaw cold, either as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 40 mins | Serves 4-6