Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles

These Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles are rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors! Made with a simple homemade peanut sauce, these noodles are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and umami, this dish is satisfying, easy to customize, and ready in just 15 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in 15 minutes
• Creamy, spicy, and full of bold flavors
• Customizable with different proteins and veggies
• Naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan or gluten-free
• Great for meal prep and reheats well

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sauce:

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup bell peppers, sliced
• ½ cup cucumber, julienned (for freshness)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp (for protein)
• ¼ cup crushed peanuts (for extra crunch)
• Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Noodles

1. In a large bowl, toss the cooked noodles with peanut sauce until well coated.
2. Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, cucumber, and green onions. Mix well.
3. Top with sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, and fresh herbs if using.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve warm or chilled for a refreshing cold noodle dish.
2. Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes for more spice!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Vegan: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
• Low-Carb: Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead of regular noodles.
• Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or edamame.
• More Crunch: Add chopped peanuts, crispy chickpeas, or slaw mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Enjoy cold, or warm in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as peanut sauce can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep and can be eaten cold or reheated.

What type of noodles work best?

Spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba noodles all work well in this dish.

Can I make this less spicy?

Yes! Reduce or omit the sriracha and red pepper flakes.

What’s the best way to thin the sauce?

Use warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth consistency.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Yes! It will add a nice crunch to the sauce.

What protein pairs well with this?

Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even beef all work great with these noodles.

Can I use almond butter instead?

Yes! Almond butter makes a great substitute for peanut butter.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?

Toss them with a little sesame oil after cooking.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Try shredded cabbage, mushrooms, or snap peas.

What should I serve with this?

Pair with a side of miso soup, edamame, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Conclusion

These Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that you can whip up in no time. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, they’re a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and umami flavors. Try them today and customize them with your favorite toppings!

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