Cilantro Lime Noodles

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Cilantro Lime Noodles. This recipe combines the zesty tang of lime with the aromatic freshness of cilantro, creating a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and invigorating. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish to impress your guests, these noodles are sure to hit the spot. Let’s explore how to make this vibrant dish!

Cooking the Noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and minced garlic.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.

Adding the Fresh Flavors

Incorporating Cilantro and Seasonings

1. Add Cilantro: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. The cilantro should be added just before serving to keep its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
2. Season to Taste: Season the noodles with salt and pepper. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation Tips

Serve the Cilantro Lime Noodles in a large bowl, garnished with additional cilantro leaves, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 200-300
• Protein: 5-7 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams

Health Benefits

Cilantro Lime Noodles are a light and healthy option, packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the lime and cilantro. Using rice noodles makes this dish gluten-free, and you can control the amount of oil to suit your dietary preferences.

Customizing Your Cilantro Lime Noodles

Flavor Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Veggie Delight: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas.
• Nutty Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the dressing for a creamy, nutty flavor.

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your noodles are gluten-free rice noodles.
• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but double-check any optional add-ins.
• Low-Carb: Substitute with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing in Advance

You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Cook the noodles fresh before serving to maintain their texture.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Refresh with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely! While rice noodles are traditional, you can use spaghetti, soba noodles, or even zucchini noodles.

What can I use instead of cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try using fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, Cilantro Lime Noodles can be served cold as a refreshing noodle salad.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Definitely! Just keep the noodles and dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Noodles are a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of fresh flavors in a simple and quick dish. With its zesty lime and fragrant cilantro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful, light meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Yield: 2 servings

Cilantro Lime Noodles

Print

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Cilantro Lime Noodles. This recipe combines the zesty tang of lime with the aromatic freshness of cilantro, creating a perfect balance that’s both satisfying and invigorating. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish to impress your guests, these noodles are sure to hit the spot. Let’s explore how to make this vibrant dish!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• Noodles:
• 5.2 oz dry noodles of choice (2 servings) I used knife cut noodles
• Cilantro Lime Sauce:
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro , see notes
• 3 cloves garlic , minced
• 1/2 small shallot or red onion
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tbsp chilli power , optional for extra spice
• 1/4 cup oil , I used olive oil
• Seasonings:
• 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce , to taste
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice juice from 1 lime

Instructions

• Noodles – prepare your noodles and slightly undercook until still very chewy. I ran my noodles through cold water to stop it from cooking. Set aside. I quickly rinsed the pot and dried it well and used the same pot to heat the oil later on.

• In a large heat proof bowl, add the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or red onion, curry powder, sugar, and chilli powder.

• Heat the oil in the pot over medium to medium high heat for 3-4 minutes or until hot and you start to see small bubbles. To test the heat, you can add a small piece of garlic and it should immediately sizzle.

• Turn off the heat then immediately pour the oil over the bowl of cilantro, garlic, shallot/onion, and seasonings. Enjoy the sizzle and mix well.

• Add in the vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix well.

• Add cooked noodles and mix to coat in the sauce mixture. Taste the noodles and feel free to season with more veg oyster sauce, if needed

• Finish with some chili oil/sauce, if desired. Enjoy while hot!

Notes

Should I use the stems? I use the steams if I have young cilantro from my plant that has very thin and crunchy stems. I find that these add great flavour too. You’re free to chop off any thicker and tough stems and just use the leaves.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 544