Light, zesty, and bursting with fresh herbs, this vibrant dish that hits all the right notes—crunchy, cool, tangy, and just a little bit spicy! Inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, it’s the perfect warm-weather salad; refreshing yet satisfying, simple enough for a weekday lunch, and elegant enough for entertaining.

Rice Noodle Salad with Cucumber, Peanuts, Basil, and Mint

Recipe adapted from “Mood Swings” written by Jessica Seinfeld

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for salad:
  • 6 ounces thin rice noodles
  • ½ medium head of green cabbage
  • ½ English cucumber sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 4 scallions white and green parts, sliced
  • ¾ cup mix of fresh mint and basil leaves torn
  • ¾ cup chopped roasted peanuts
Ingredients for vinaigrette:
  • ¼ cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha or hot sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups/spoons
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • 4 serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Place noodles in a large bowl and cover with very hot water. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Drain in a colander; shake out excess water.
  2. Cut the cabbage half in half again through the core. Cut out the core and discard. As thinly as possible, slice the cabbage into fine shreds (about 8 cups total).
  3. Divide the noodles, cabbage, cucumber, bell pepper, and scallions among bowls. Sprinkle the herbs and peanuts over the tops.
  4. For the vinaigrette, in a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, sesame oil, Sriracha (or hot sauce), and salt.
  5. Drizzle over the salad.