Is that a simple definition of addiction? Can't live without it? Don't want to be without it? This is how I feel right about now. I am talking about a cold noodle salad that has me in its grip. I first tried it a few years ago, from the blog Simply Recipes
And I have been hooked ever since. Since then I have tried several other cold noodle salads, but I always return to this one--it is just that good! I find comfort just knowing it is chilling in the fridge and discomfort knowing that the last forkful has been consumed. Am I crazy? I guess so. Please try it and tell me I am not alone in this addiction.
Sesame and Cilantro Vermicelli Salad
Recipe adapted from Wild Thyme and Other Temptations from the Junior League of Tucson.
Honey Soy Dressing
1/4 cup grapeseed oil or corn oil
3 Tbsp dark sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon crushed dried red pepper or chili powder
3 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp soy sauce (less if using tamari which is more concentrated than soy sauce)
Salad
8 ounces of vermicelli, thin spaghetti, or angel hair pasta
Salt
1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/4 cup sliced and chopped red bell pepper
1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
1 Cook the pasta in a large saucepan in salted boiling water, according to directions on pasta package. Drain but do not rinse.
2 While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a microwave-safe dish, heat the vegetable oil, sesame oil, and red pepper, in the microwave on high heat for 2 minutes. Add the honey and soy sauce and mix well.
3 Combine the drained pasta with the dressing in a large bowl until the pasta is well coated. Cover and chill for several hours.
4 When ready to serve, mix in the cilantro, peanuts, green onions and bell pepper. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
Serves 4 to 8, depending on serving size and if it is a side or main course.
Note: I served it for lunch this week and after plating the portions, split a small drained can of Salmon between two servings to add more protein and omega 3's to our meal. Just a suggestion. I think sliced roasted chicken would be equally good.
Read more!
Posts
