Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 12 oz gluten free angel hair pasta (Jovial Capellini recommended)
- 1/2 cup snap peas (sliced on the diagonal)
- 1/2 cup frozen shelled edamame (thawed in a bowl of warm water)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 red pepper (seeded then julienned)
- 1/4 english cucumber OR 1 mini cucumber (julienned)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
Sesame Dressing
- 1/4 cup gluten free reduced-sodium Tamari (or soy sauce if not GF)
- 3 Tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tablespoon ginger paste (Gourmet Garden brand recommended)
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Sesame Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the tamari, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, toasted sesame seeds, ginger paste, lime juice, minced garlic, and red chili pepper flakes if using. Whisk until smooth and well blended, then set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding 1 tablespoon of salt to season. Cook the gluten-free angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold running water until they are completely cooled. Drain again very well to remove excess water.
- Toss Pasta with Dressing: Transfer the cooled noodles to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the prepared sesame dressing over the noodles and toss gently with tongs to coat evenly. Allow the noodles to sit for 5 minutes so they absorb some of the dressing.
- Add Vegetables and Remaining Dressing: Add the sliced snap peas, thawed edamame, shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, julienned red pepper, julienned cucumber, and chopped green onions to the noodles. Pour the remaining half of the sesame dressing over the salad. Toss everything thoroughly with tongs to combine all the ingredients well.
- Serve: Serve the sesame noodle salad immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. It can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using gluten-free pasta ensures the dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Allowing the noodles to sit briefly with the first half of the dressing helps deepen the flavor absorption.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the heat level or omit if you prefer a milder salad.
- For added protein, consider topping with grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
