Description

Craving a light, vibrant meal that’s packed with Asian-inspired flavors and fresh veggies? The Sesame Soba Noodles, rated 4.94 from 229 votes, are your answer! This vegetarian dish features nutty soba noodles tossed in a bright sesame dressing, topped with creamy avocado, crisp snap peas, radishes, and fresh mint

Ingredients

To make Sesame Soba Noodles for 2–4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this refreshing dish:

Sesame Dressing:

Rice Vinegar (¼ cup): Adds bright, tangy acidity.
Tamari (2 tbsp, plus more for serving): Provides savory, umami flavor.
Toasted Sesame Oil (½ tsp, plus more for serving): Brings nutty, aromatic depth.
Fresh Ginger (1 tsp, grated): Adds warm, spicy notes.
Garlic Clove (1, grated): Offers subtle savory flavor.
Maple Syrup or Honey (½ tsp): Balances flavors with mild sweetness.

Soba Noodles and Toppings:

Soba Noodles (6 oz): Nutty, buckwheat-based noodles for the base.
Lemon Wedge (for squeezing): Adds a fresh, citrusy kick to avocado.
Avocados (2, sliced): Brings creamy, rich texture.
Blanched Snap Peas (2 cups): Adds crisp, sweet crunch.
Edamame (¼ cup): Provides protein and a pop of green.
Watermelon Radish or Red Radishes (1 or 2, very thinly sliced): Adds vibrant color and crunch.
Fresh Mint Leaves (¼ cup): Brings refreshing, herbaceous flavor.
Sesame Seeds: Offers a nutty garnish.

Substitutions and Variations:

Soba Noodles: Swap with rice noodles, udon, or gluten-free soba noodles (check notes for brands).
Tamari: Use soy sauce (if not gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
Avocado: Replace with sliced cucumber or tofu for a different texture.
Vegetables: Swap snap peas or edamame with asparagus, shredded carrots, or bell peppers.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Use agave nectar or omit for less sweetness.
Add-Ons: Include grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey (as noted).
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soba noodles and tamari (check labels).
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the dressing.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The soba noodles provide a nutty, hearty base, while the sesame dressing adds tangy, umami flavor. The fresh vegetables and avocado bring crunch and creaminess, and the mint and sesame seeds elevate the dish, making it a balanced, nutrient-rich meal perfect for vegetarian or vegan diets.

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Sesame Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup rice vinegar, 2 tbsp tamari, ½ tsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp grated fresh ginger, 1 grated garlic clove, and ½ tsp maple syrup (or honey).
Set aside.

Tip: Grate ginger and garlic finely for a smooth dressing, and whisk thoroughly to blend flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Soba Noodles

Bring an unsalted pot of water to a boil.
Cook 6 oz soba noodles according to package directions (typically 4–6 minutes).
Drain and rinse well under cold water to remove starches and prevent clumping.

Tip: Rinse noodles thoroughly to keep them from sticking, and shake off excess water before tossing with dressing.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

In a large bowl, toss the rinsed soba noodles with the sesame dressing until evenly coated.
Divide the noodles into 2–4 serving bowls.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over 2 sliced avocados to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
Top each bowl with avocado slices, 2 cups blanched snap peas, ¼ cup edamame, thinly sliced watermelon radish (or 2 red radishes), and ¼ cup fresh mint leaves.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Tip: Blanch snap peas briefly (1–2 minutes in boiling water, then shock in ice water) for vibrant color and crisp texture.

Step 4: Serve

Drizzle with additional tamari or sesame oil, if desired.
Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled.

Tip: Serve fresh to enjoy the vibrant textures and flavors; toss gently to keep toppings evenly distributed.