Asian Sesame Noodle Salad (with Optional Chicken)
This Asian sesame noodle salad is bright, savory, and deeply aromatic, featuring Japanese toasted sesame oil and honey ginger balsamic vinegar for a perfectly balanced dressing. Nutty sesame notes meet gentle sweetness and fresh ginger warmth, creating a versatile dish that works equally well as a light main or a flavorful side. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, with or without grilled chicken.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 oz Spaghetti, Linguine, Asian Style Noodles
- 1 Cup Shredded Carrots
- 1 Cup Red Cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced)
- 3 Scallions (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
- 2 Tbsp Sesame Seeds (toasted)
Sesame Honey Ginger Dressing
- 1/4 Cup Toasted Sesame Oil EVOO Marketplace
- 3 Tbsp Honey Ginger Balsamic EVOO Marketplace
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Honey Optional
- 1 Tsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
- 1 Clove Garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 Tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional
Optional Chicken
- 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil EVOO Marketplace
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
Make the Noodles
- Cook noodles according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, honey ginger balsamic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (if using), ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes until emulsified.
Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine noodles, carrots, cabbage, bell pepper, scallions, and cilantro.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
Optional Chicken
- Season chicken with sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Rest briefly, slice thinly, and serve on top of the noodle salad.
Notes
- Japanese toasted sesame oil provides deep, nutty flavor—use sparingly, as it’s highly aromatic.
- Honey ginger balsamic adds sweetness and brightness without overpowering the sesame.
- For a vegan version, omit chicken and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main dish, picnic salad, or make-ahead lunch. Excellent alongside grilled shrimp, tofu, or additional fresh herbs.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss before serving.