Oriental Noodle Salad
A vibrant and tangy Asian-inspired noodle salad with crisp broccoli, colorful peppers, and a spicy sesame chili dressing, perfect for light meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli flowerets until tender crisp and set aside.
- Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, cider vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and Chinese hot chili oil to make the dressing.
- Add cooked pasta, broccoli, red bell pepper strips, and chopped scallions to the bowl.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider including toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the soy sauce with a low-sodium version. Add more vegetables like shredded carrots or snap peas for color and nutrition. Ensure the garlic is minced finely to distribute its flavor evenly. This salad can also be adapted for Asian flavors, similar to Peking Salad Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a light main dish or as a side dish for grilled meats or Asian-inspired meals. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Microwave Pepper Steak or Asparagus With Water Chestnuts. You can also add grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier option. Garnish with additional scallions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Oriental Noodle Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can reheat it in the microwave for a quick meal, but it's best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to preserve the texture of the vegetables. Stir well before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oriental Noodle Salad contains roughly 470 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2493mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute linguine with rice noodles or soba noodles for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked to your liking.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Mix everything together just before serving for the best texture.
Can I make this salad spicy?
Definitely! If you enjoy heat, you can increase the amount of Chinese hot chili oil or add some sliced fresh chili peppers. Adjust the spice level according to your preference, and enjoy the extra kick in flavor!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).