If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s packed with bold flavors, these Peanut Butter Noodles are just what you need. This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a speedy lunch. The creamy peanut sauce, combined with chewy rice noodles and crunchy toppings, creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Packed with Flavor: The rich, nutty sauce is balanced with tangy vinegar, savory soy sauce, and a spicy kick from sriracha.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels, swap out ingredients, or add protein.
- Great for Meal Prep: Store leftovers for an easy meal later in the week.
Who is This Recipe For?
This peanut butter noodle recipe is perfect for:
- Busy professionals who need a fast and tasty meal.
- Peanut butter lovers looking for a savory twist on their favorite ingredient.
- Vegans and vegetarians looking for a flavor-packed meatless dish.
- Anyone craving restaurant-style noodles made at home!
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup smooth peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoon seasoned rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 4 tablespoon water
For the Pasta:
- 7 oz rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup green onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup salted toasted peanuts, crushed
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large bowl (for soaking rice noodles)
- Medium bowl (for mixing the sauce)
- Whisk (to blend the sauce)
- Large pan or wok (for cooking the noodles)
- Knife & cutting board (for chopping garlic and garnishes)
- Measuring spoons & cups (for accurate ingredient portions)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook your rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, soaking them in a bowl of boiling water for about 8 minutes works well.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sriracha, and water.
- Microwave for 30 seconds, then whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Set aside.
Step 3: Cook Everything Together
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the drained rice noodles.
- Pour in the peanut butter sauce and ½ cup of water.
- Stir continuously until the noodles absorb most of the liquid.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with crushed peanuts, green onions, and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it Creamier: Add coconut milk or more peanut butter for an extra creamy sauce.
- Add Protein: Toss in tofu, grilled chicken, shrimp, or beef for added protein.
- Switch Up the Noodles: Try spaghetti, soba, or udon noodles if you don’t have rice noodles.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Boost the Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, carrots, or baby spinach for added nutrition.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or reheat on the stove over low heat.
Food & Drink Pairings
Pair with:
- Cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for a refreshing side.
- Iced green tea or Thai iced tea for a flavorful drink option.
- Spring rolls with peanut sauce for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture, but you may need to add a bit more water to thin out the sauce.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the sriracha and red pepper flakes, but you can reduce or omit them for a milder version.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Cook the noodles fresh for the best texture.
4. What can I substitute for sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, use olive oil or avocado oil, but note that you’ll miss the deep, nutty flavor.
5. Can I make this nut-free?
Yes! Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Noodles recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal. It’s easy to customize, great for meal prep, and comes together in minutes.
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