Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing cold noodle salad? As the temperatures rise, our bodies crave lighter, cooler meals that are easy to digest. And what’s better than a deliciously chilled noodle dish packed with flavors and textures? In this article, we’ll explore 18 refreshing cold noodle salad recipes from around the world that will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long.
From classic Asian-inspired dishes like Sesame Soy Cold Noodle Salad and Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad to international twists like Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad and Korean Cold Buckwheat Noodle Salad, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a light dinner option, these cold noodle salads are sure to hit the spot.
Stay tuned for our top picks and learn how to make the most of the season with these 18 refreshing cold noodle salad recipes!
Sesame Soy Cold Noodle Salad
A refreshing Asian-inspired salad perfect for hot summer days, featuring nutty sesame and savory soy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Add toasted sesame seeds, scallions, cucumber, and carrots to the bowl; toss to combine.
4. Add cooked noodles to the bowl; gently toss until well coated with the sesame-soy mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the spicy kick of peanut sauce, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With its bold flavors and textures, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked soba noodles and spicy peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Garnish with chopped scallions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Vermicelli Salad with Herbs
A refreshing and light Vietnamese-inspired salad that combines the flavors of vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as mint, basil, cilantro)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and pickled carrots (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked vermicelli noodles and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Shrimp
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of glass noodles with the spiciness of Thai flavors, featuring succulent shrimp as the main attraction.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glass noodles
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked glass noodles, shrimp, cilantro, scallions, red bell pepper, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
4. Toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sliced chilies, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Cold Buckwheat Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is a popular Korean side dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. Made with chewy buckwheat noodles, crunchy vegetables, and spicy gochujang sauce, this dish is both flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked buckwheat noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as cucumber, carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook buckwheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cut mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Add cooked noodles and mixed vegetables to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a cold dish)
Japanese Zaru Soba with Dipping Sauce
Experience the authentic taste of Japan with this simple recipe for zaru soba noodles served with a savory dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of zaru soba noodles (dried or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons of mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Cook the zaru soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Serve the cooked zaru soba noodles hot with the dipping sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Japanese Zaru Soba with Dipping Sauce!
Chilled Udon Noodle Salad with Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the cooling crispness of cucumber, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, yogurt, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked udon noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the cucumber mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ginger Soba Noodle Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing salad that combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the zesty goodness of lemon and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, lemon juice, grated ginger, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
3. Add cooked soba noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Ramen Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad is a twist on traditional ramen noodles, perfect for hot summer days or as a quick lunch option. By combining cooked noodles with crunchy vegetables and a savory sesame dressing, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cooked ramen noodles
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy salad.
Asian-Inspired Cold Rice Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this dish combines the creamy texture of cold rice noodles with the bold flavors of Asia. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and bok choy)
– 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cold rice noodles, mixed greens, chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for warm weather, this Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad combines the nutty taste of orzo with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked orzo pasta, chopped olives, feta cheese, artichoke hearts, and parsley to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chilled Somen Noodle Salad with Edamame
A refreshing summer salad that combines the smoothness of somen noodles, the sweetness of edamame, and a hint of savory flavor. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for hot days when you need a cool and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g somen noodles
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the somen noodles according to package instructions and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add cooked edamame and somen noodles to the bowl, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking noodles)
Cold Noodle Salad with Mango and Lime
This light and zesty salad combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of lime, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch for warm weather. With just a few ingredients, you can create this refreshing treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, mango, bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Korean kimchi, this spicy cold noodle salad combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the satisfying crunch of noodles and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cold buckwheat or soba noodles
– 1/2 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and sesame oil.
3. Add chopped kimchi, cucumber, carrots, and noodles to the bowl. Toss until everything is well coated with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including noodle cooking time)
Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Avocado
This refreshing summer salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and tangy sesame dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, diced avocado, sliced cucumber, and chopped scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cold Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken
This refreshing salad combines tender grilled chicken, crunchy noodles, and a zesty dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and cilantro.
4. Add the grilled chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Bun Cha Gio Salad
Discover the harmonious balance of flavors and textures in this refreshing Vietnamese-inspired salad. Crunchy fried wontons, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs come together to create a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
• 12-15 won ton wrappers
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. Fry the won ton wrappers in batches until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per batch. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled bacon, chopped cilantro, and mint leaves.
4. Add fried wontons on top of the salad and drizzle with fish sauce (if using) and lime juice.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chilled Noodle Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing noodle salad is perfect for hot summer days. The creamy tahini dressing adds a rich and nutty flavor that complements the crunchy noodles and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba or rice noodles
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Chill in the refrigerator.
2. In a blender, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled noodles, diced chicken, and mixed vegetables.
4. Pour the tahini dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold noodle salad recipes! From Asian-inspired dishes like Sesame Soy Cold Noodle Salad and Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad, to Mediterranean flavors in the Chilled Orzo Pasta Salad, there’s something for everyone. Try the Thai Glass Noodle Salad with Shrimp or the Korean Cold Buckwheat Noodle Salad for a taste of international cuisine. Or, keep it simple with classic cold noodle salads like Japanese Zaru Soba or Chilled Udon Noodle Salad with Cucumber. Whatever your flavor, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
