Save With barely any chopping and a silky, satisfying sauce, these quick peanut noodles come together in just ten minutes and have saved dinnertime on some of my most hectic evenings. This recipe delivers serious flavor with minimal work, and it loves improvisation for whatever you have on hand.
My family asks for these noodles after long days when only comfort food will do. They hit the spot every time and are so adaptable that I never get bored of them.
Ingredients
- Rice noodles or spaghetti: Ideal for soaking up sauces and cooks quickly Choose noodles with minimal breakage and a fresh appearance
- Creamy peanut butter: Gives body and a velvety texture and is the backbone of the sauce Look for all-natural peanut butter for best flavor
- Soy sauce: Lends deep umami and rich color Choose low sodium if possible
- Rice vinegar or lime juice: Adds a punchy tang to balance richness Pick fresh lime for extra zest
- Maple syrup or honey: Brings sweetness to round out the sauce Use pure maple syrup for the cleanest flavor
- Sesame oil: Fragrant finish and a hint of nuttiness Use toasted sesame oil for richer aroma
- Garlic: Minced fresh for bite and aroma Pick firm cloves with papery skins
- Ginger: Optional but highly recommended for zing Use plump smooth-skinned pieces
- Warm water: Helps thin sauce to perfect consistency
- Chili flakes or sriracha: Optional for some heat Adjust to your taste and use fresh for bold flavor
- Spring onion: Fresh sharp finish and extra color Pick firm stalks with vibrant green tops
- Roasted peanuts: For crunch and extra peanut flavor Choose unsalted and coarsely chop yourself
- Fresh cilantro or basil: Bright herbal notes Optional but worth it for freshness
- Sesame seeds: Optional for extra crunch and beeautiful finish Lightly toast for best flavor
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
- Bring a medium pot of water to a boil then add a generous pinch of salt Add rice noodles or spaghetti and cook until just tender usually three to four minutes for rice noodles and eight to nine minutes for spaghetti Stir occasionally to prevent sticking Drain well but do not rinse if you like the sauce to cling better
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- While noodles cook place peanut butter soy sauce rice vinegar or lime juice maple syrup sesame oil garlic grated ginger and chili flakes or sriracha into a mixing bowl Whisk well until smooth then gradually add warm water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce becomes creamy and pourable Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Coat the Noodles:
- Return the hot drained noodles to the pot or place in a serving bowl Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss using tongs or two forks until every strand is evenly coated
- Finish and Serve:
- Divide the saucy noodles between bowls Top generously with sliced spring onion chopped roasted peanuts and any optional herbs or sesame seeds Serve immediately while warm and creamy
Save Peanut butter always reminds me of helping my kids create their first kitchen masterpieces These noodles have sparked giggles and playful competition over who can slurp the longest strand
Storage Tips
Leftover peanut noodles hold up well in the fridge for up to three days Store in an airtight container and add a splash of warm water or soy sauce before reheating to loosen up the sauce Noodles can be eaten cold straight from the fridge which makes them an ideal grab and go lunch
Ingredient Substitutions
Rice noodles can be swapped for any long pasta or ramen noodles For a nut free version try using sunflower seed butter and coconut aminos instead of peanut butter and soy sauce Adjust sweetener to suit, either agave syrup or even brown sugar if needed
Serving Suggestions
Pile on quick stir fried vegetables like bell pepper carrot or snap peas for crunch and color For extra protein top with grilled tofu edamame or leftover shredded chicken A fried or soft boiled egg is another fantastic finishing touch
Save Enjoy these noodles for a stress free meal brimming with comfort and flavor. They are sure to become a weeknight favorite on your table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other noodles instead of rice noodles?
Yes, spaghetti or any long noodle can work well. Adjust cooking times as needed for your chosen pasta.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Choose rice noodles and replace soy sauce with tamari to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
- → What protein works well with this dish?
Tofu, edamame, or shredded chicken all pair nicely. Simply toss them in with the noodles before serving.
- → Are there nut-free or soy-free alternatives?
Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for allergy-friendly options.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Add warm water, a tablespoon at a time, to the peanut mixture until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.
- → What vegetables can I add?
Try shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for freshness and extra crunch.