Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a quick, refreshing, and flavorful dish featuring tender rice noodles tossed in a zesty cilantro lime sauce. Enhanced with green onions, crushed peanuts, and a subtle kick from red pepper flakes, this vibrant recipe can be served cold or warm, making it perfect for meal prep, side dishes, or light main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 8 oz. rice noodles
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add-Ins and Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, ensuring there’s enough water to fully submerge the rice noodles.
- Cook Noodles: Add the rice noodles to the boiling water and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions (usually 4-6 minutes) until tender but still al dente.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined, ensuring the honey dissolves completely. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Toss Noodles with Sauce: Pour the cilantro lime sauce over the cooked rice noodles. Using tongs or a large fork, gently toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Add Herbs and Peanuts: Add chopped cilantro and sliced green onions, tossing again to distribute evenly. If using, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top and toss lightly to mix.
- Adjust Flavors: Taste the noodles and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or soy sauce as desired.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro and green onions, and serve with lime wedges if desired.
- Optional Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for a refreshing cold dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy cold or reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the noodles.
- Customize: Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for added protein or sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra veggies. Serve alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a filling meal.
- Pro Tips: Taste as you go and adjust flavors to your liking. For meal prep, keep the sauce separate until ready to eat. Great as a side dish for barbecues or potlucks!
Notes
- Rice noodles cook quickly; avoid overcooking to maintain the perfect al dente texture.
- Rinsing noodles in cold water stops cooking and removes excess starch to prevent clumping.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Peanuts add a crunchy texture but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- The dish can be served warm or chilled—both ways are delicious.
- To keep noodles from sticking during meal prep, store noodles and sauce separately and combine just before serving.
- Adding protein or extra vegetables can make the dish a more substantial meal.
