Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a refreshing and flavorful dish featuring tender rice noodles tossed in a zesty lime and garlic dressing, accented with fresh cilantro, green onions, and optional spicy and crunchy toppings. This easy, vegetarian recipe can be served warm or chilled, making it perfect as a light main course or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 8 ounces rice noodles or thin spaghetti
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Add-Ins and Garnishes
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped roasted peanuts or sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the rice noodles or thin spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the noodles aside to cool.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, lime zest, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss Noodles with Dressing: Transfer the cooked and cooled noodles to a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the noodles and toss thoroughly to ensure every noodle is coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Onions: Add the finely chopped cilantro and thinly sliced green onions to the noodles. Toss gently again to evenly distribute these fresh ingredients throughout the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired for a touch of heat. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve the noodles immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enjoy as a refreshing cold noodle salad.
Notes
- For extra protein, add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
- This dish can be served warm or cold.
- It works well as a side dish or a light main course.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice and honey to suit your taste preferences.
