Summer has finally arrived, and with it, the perfect excuse to trade in your hot, heavy meals for light, cool, and refreshing dishes. And what better way to beat the heat than with a bowl of deliciously chilled noodles? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 refreshing cold noodle recipes from around the world that are sure to become your new go-to summer staples.
From classic Korean Bibim Naengmyeon to spicy Thai Glass Noodle Salad and everything in between, our list features a diverse range of dishes that showcase the versatility and flavor of noodles in all their chilled glory. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner option, we’ve got you covered with these 20 refreshing cold noodle recipes perfect for sizzling summer days.
Korean Bibim Naengmyeon
Bibim Naengmyeon is a popular Korean summer noodle dish that combines the spicy and sweet flavors of Gyeranjjim (Korean-style soft-boiled eggs) with the refreshing crunch of naengmyeon (cold buckwheat or starch noodles). This recipe is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling and invigorating meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g naengmyeon noodles
– 2 cups of cold water
– 1/4 cup of Gyeranjjim sauce (Korean-style soft-boiled eggs)
– 1/4 cup of diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup of diced pear
– 1/4 cup of pickled ginger slices
– 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the naengmyeon noodles according to package instructions and rinse in cold water.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Gyeranjjim sauce, toasted sesame oil, and salt to taste.
3. Assemble the dish by placing the cooked noodles in a bowl, topping with diced cucumber, pear, and pickled ginger slices.
4. Drizzle the Gyeranjjim sauce over the top of the ingredients.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Japanese Zaru Soba
Experience the simplicity and delight of traditional Japanese cuisine with this recipe for Zaru Soba, a classic dish originating from Japan.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of soba noodles (100g)
– 4 cups of hot water
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons of mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Soba noodles garnish: thinly sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and grated daikon radish
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions using hot water.
2. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake or dry white wine, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding solids.
5. Add sesame oil and soba noodles to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Garnish with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and grated daikon radish.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Vietnamese Bun Cha
Bun Cha is a popular Vietnamese street food that combines grilled pork and chicken with steamed rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce. This recipe brings the flavors of Hanoi to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro)
– Dipping sauce (peanut butter, lime juice, chili flakes)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pork and chicken with fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and water. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill pork and chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Serve grilled meats with steamed noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Thai Glass Noodle Salad
This refreshing Thai-inspired salad is a perfect blend of crunchy glass noodles, savory vegetables, and tangy dressing. A quick and easy meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, cucumber, scallions)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, fish sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger. Toss until well combined.
3. Add the cooked glass noodles to the vegetable mixture and toss again.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chinese Liangpi Cold Noodles
Liangpi cold noodles are a popular Chinese summer dish that combines the comforting warmth of noodles with the cooling relief of a refreshing broth. This recipe is a simplified version of the original, perfect for hot days when you need a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g noodles (preferably starch-based or rice noodles)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine water, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Add cooked noodles to the broth and stir gently.
4. Top with green onions, cucumber, carrots, and a pinch of salt.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including cooking time)
Sesame Peanut Cold Noodles
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional noodles, this Sesame Peanut Cold Noodle recipe combines the nutty taste of sesame with the richness of peanut butter, all in a chilled and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. creamy peanut butter
– 1 tbsp. tahini
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, tahini, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the chopped peanuts and blend until well combined.
4. Toss the cooked noodles with the peanut-tahini mixture until coated.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is chilled and served cold.
Spicy Sichuan Cold Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this refreshing cold noodle dish, perfect for hot summer days. This spicy and savory recipe combines the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns with the crunch of peanuts and the comfort of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g thin wheat flour noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons Sichuan peppercorn oil
– 1 teaspoon chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced scallions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, Sichuan peppercorn oil, and chili bean paste. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut mixture, cucumber, scallions, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the noodles and toss to coat.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Mul Naengmyeon
Mul Naengmyeon is a popular Korean summer noodle dish that’s perfect for hot days. This refreshing recipe combines chewy buckwheat noodles with a spicy and sour broth, crunchy cucumber slices, and savory beef or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 200g buckwheat noodles
– 2 cups beef or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Cook buckwheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together broth, chili flakes, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to coat with the broth mixture.
4. Top noodles with cucumber slices and toasted sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the nutty taste of soba noodles with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add the water to the dipping sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Divide the cooled noodles among bowls or containers.
5. Serve the noodles chilled and offer the dipping sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time)
Vietnamese Bun Thit Nuong
Bun Thit Nuong is a popular Vietnamese dish that combines the flavors of grilled pork, fresh vegetables, and rice noodles. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 8 ounces rice noodles (bun)
– Fresh lettuce leaves, mint leaves, and cilantro
– Chopped cucumber, carrots, and bean sprouts
Instructions:
1. Marinate the pork in a mixture of fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and garlic for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the pork until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the dish by placing noodles on a plate, topping with grilled pork, and adding fresh vegetables and herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Udon Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days or as a light and healthy meal any time of the year. Made with chewy udon noodles, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, carrot, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
4. Add the cooked udon noodles to the salad bowl and toss with the dressing until noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Jjolmyeon
Jjolmyeon is a popular Korean noodle dish made with chewy, caramelized noodles and a savory, spicy sauce. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Gochujang (Korean chili paste) and soy sauce to create a mouth-numbingly delicious experience.
Ingredients:
– 200g Jjolmyeon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Jjolmyeon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the sauce and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the noodles are well coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Yum Woon Sen
Yum Woon Sen is a classic Thai dish that combines the crunch of glass noodles with the freshness of vegetables and herbs. This simple recipe makes for a quick and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dried)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, chopped cilantro)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked chicken, fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
3. Add cooked glass noodles and toss gently.
4. Stir in minced garlic and toasted peanuts.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Ramen Noodle Salad
This light and zesty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Made with cold ramen noodles, crunchy veggies, and creamy sauce, it’s a delicious way to beat the heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cold ramen noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and pickled ginger.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mayonnaise, and sesame oil.
4. Add the cooked ramen noodles to the bowl with the vegetables and toss to combine.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chinese Sesame Cold Noodles
A refreshing and flavorful summer treat, Chinese sesame cold noodles are a popular Chinese dish that combines the perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. thin wheat flour noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Chopped scallions and bean sprouts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the garlic and blend until well combined.
4. Toss cooked noodles with the sesame sauce until coated.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the noodles and garnish with scallions and bean sprouts if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold dish.
Korean Buckwheat Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is a popular Korean dish that combines the nutty flavor of buckwheat noodles with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz buckwheat noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tbsp Gochujang sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook buckwheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, carrots, and green onions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss with the dressing until well combined.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Japanese Hiyashi Chuka
A popular Japanese comfort food, Hiyashi Chuka is a warm and savory noodle soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe serves 1-2 people.
Ingredients:
– 100g Japanese noodles (such as Hakata or Soba)
– 1 cup dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
– 1/2 cup sliced pork (such as loin or belly), cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pot, combine dashi broth and cooked pork. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add sliced green onions and shiitake mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked noodles to the pot and stir well to combine.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Pho Noodle Salad
This Cold Pho Noodle Salad is a creative spin on the traditional hot noodle soup, perfect for warm weather or as a light and easy lunch. By swapping out the broth for a zesty dressing and adding crunchy toppings, you’ll get all the flavors of pho without heating up your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Add cooked noodles, cucumber, bell pepper, cilantro, scallions, and peanuts to the bowl.
4. Toss everything together until well combined.
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
Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodles
Beat the heat with this refreshing Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodle recipe, a perfect fusion of Korean flavors and chilled noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cold noodle (naengmyeon)
– 1/2 cup kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage), chopped
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the cold noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine kimchi, gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles and spicy kimchi sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Somen Noodles with Cucumber
A perfect summer treat that combines the comfort of noodles with the cooling essence of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 200g cold somen noodles
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the somen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Add the sliced cucumber to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Combine the cooked noodles with the cucumber mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cucumber slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold noodle recipes! From Korean Bibim Naengmyeon to Japanese Zaru Soba, and from Vietnamese Bun Cha to Thai Glass Noodle Salad, we’ve got you covered. Explore 20 cooling noodle dishes that are perfect for hot summer days. Discover how to make classic cold noodles like Chinese Liangpi or Japanese Hiyashi Chuka, as well as more adventurous options like Spicy Sichuan Cold Noodles or Thai Yum Woon Sen. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, we’ve got a cold noodle recipe that’s sure to hit the spot!
