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Cold Sesame Noodle Salad with Cucumber and Scallions is a refreshing dish perfect for hot days or when you want a light, flavorful meal. Its cool, nutty sauce pairs beautifully with chilled salmon, creating a harmonious and satisfying combination.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces soba or rice noodles
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
- For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Preparation
Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, toss the cooled noodles with the dressing. Add cucumber slices and scallions, then toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Pairing with Chilled Salmon
This cold sesame noodle salad pairs excellently with chilled salmon. The cool, flaky fish complements the nutty, tangy flavors of the salad. Serve the salmon either as a fillet or smoked for an added smoky flavor.
For a complete meal, arrange the salmon alongside the salad on a platter. Garnish with additional scallions or sesame seeds for presentation. This pairing is perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or light dinners.
Tips for Success
- Use cold, cooked noodles to keep the salad refreshing.
- Adjust the amount of sesame oil and soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- For added crunch, include shredded carrots or chopped peanuts.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Enjoy this light, flavorful dish as a perfect pairing for chilled salmon, ideal for warm days or when you want a healthy, satisfying meal.