Cold Peanut Noodles
These Cold Peanut Noodles are the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and refreshing. Made with spaghetti soaked for convenience, then tossed with a rich peanut butter sauce, crunchy cucumbers, roasted peanuts, and a splash of chili oil, this dish comes together quickly and makes a deliciously satisfying meal—perfect for hot days or easy meal prep.
Equipment
- Large bowl – for soaking the spaghetti, and toss the noodles with sauce and toppings
- Medium or large pot – for boiling the noodles
- Colander or strainer – for draining and rinsing noodles
- small bowl – to mix peanut butter and hot water
- Whisk or spoon – to stir the peanut sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning
Ingredients
- ½ lb dry spaghetti (Makes 4 regular servings or 2 servings for hungry adults.)
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup hot water
- ½ cup shredded cucumber
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts
- 1 tbsp chili oil
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar (Chinkiang or rice vinegar)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp chicken bouillon powder (or 1/4 tsp MSG, or skip)
- ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)
Instructions
- Place dry spaghetti in a large bowl (or a tall cup) and cover with cold water. Let it soak at room temperature for 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight, until softened.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the soaked noodles and cook over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, or until tender. Drain the noodles and then soak them in a large bowl of iced water (or rinse under cold water) until fully cooled. Drain again and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, gently whisk together peanut butter and hot water until smooth.
- Add the diluted peanut butter to the noodles, followed by cucumber, cilantro, roasted peanuts, chili oil, light and dark soy sauces, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, bouillon (if using), and salt.
- Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt or chili oil as desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for later. Makes 4 regular servings or 2 servings for hungry adults.