Chili Crisp Cold Noodles
Chili Crisp Cold Noodles are a refreshing, flavor-packed dish featuring chilled noodles tossed in a spicy, savory sauce made with chili crisp, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Crisp vegetables add freshness and crunch, while sesame seeds and green onions provide the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 20 minutes, this versatile recipe is ideal for meal prep, quick lunches, or light dinners and can easily be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 12 ounces ramen noodles, wheat noodles, soba, or rice noodles
- Ice water for cooling
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons chili crisp
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or tahini (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
Toppings
- 1 cup julienned cucumber
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional crushed roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just tender.
- Drain immediately and rinse under cold running water.
- Transfer the noodles to a bowl of ice water for 2–3 minutes to stop the cooking process.
- Drain thoroughly and toss lightly with a few drops of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chili crisp, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, peanut butter (if using), honey, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- Add the chilled noodles to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Fold in the cucumber, carrots, and half of the green onions.
- Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with the remaining green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, and roasted peanuts if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes for even deeper flavor.
Notes
- Rinse noodles thoroughly to remove excess starch.
- Chili crisp brands vary in spice level; adjust to your preference.
- Fresh vegetables provide the best crunch.
- Peanut butter adds richness but is optional.
- Toast sesame seeds for enhanced flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
- Chill before serving for the best texture.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.