Cilantro Lime Noodles

Cilantro Lime Noodles are an easy and delicious dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. Perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and casual gatherings, this recipe balances zesty lime with the fresh taste of cilantro. With just a hint of spice from chili and curry powder, these noodles are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy them hot or cold, making them a versatile option for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of lime, cilantro, and spices creates a vibrant taste that tantalizes your palate.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Plant-Based Delight: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the sauces used are plant-based.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These noodles store well, making them ideal for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Cilantro Lime Noodles, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure a stress-free experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Large heatproof bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking your noodles perfectly without sticking together.
• Large heatproof bowl: This bowl allows you to mix hot oil with fresh ingredients safely without fear of breakage.
• Knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts when chopping garlic, shallots, and cilantro, enhancing the overall presentation.
• Cutting board: A stable surface is crucial for efficient chopping and preparation.

Ingredients

An easy, savoury, and zesty bowl of Cilantro Lime Noodles with a hint of spice and earthiness from chili and curry powder.

For the Noodles

• 5.2 oz dry noodles of choice (2 servings) I used knife cut noodles

For the 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 chili powder (optional for extra spice)
• 1/4 cup oil (I used olive oil)
• 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce (to taste)
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice (juice from 1 lime)

How to Make Cilantro Lime Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by cooking your noodles according to package instructions but slightly undercook them so they remain chewy. After cooking, rinse the noodles in cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Fresh Ingredients

In a large heatproof bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or red onion, curry powder, sugar, and chili powder.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In the pot you used for the noodles, heat oil over medium to medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes until hot. To test if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of garlic; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Combine Hot Oil with Ingredients

Turn off the heat once the oil is ready. Carefully pour the hot oil over the bowl containing cilantro and spices; enjoy the sizzle as you mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Sauces

Pour in vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and lime juice into the mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 6: Mix in Noodles

Add your cooked noodles to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until noodles are well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

If desired, finish with some chili oil or sauce for added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Noodles!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles

Cilantro Lime Noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a heartier dish, these noodles can be tailored to your preferences.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy the noodles plain for a quick and satisfying meal. The fresh cilantro and zesty lime provide plenty of flavor.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair your cilantro lime noodles with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The smoky flavor complements the zesty noodles perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Veggies

• Add colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumber. This adds crunch and freshness to your bowl.

With Chili Oil Drizzle

• For an extra kick, drizzle some chili oil on top before serving. It enhances the spiciness while adding depth to the flavor.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill the prepared noodles and serve them cold as a salad. Toss in some additional vegetables and a splash of lime juice for a refreshing dish.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide the noodles into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. They maintain their flavor well when stored in the fridge.

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How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Noodles

To ensure your Cilantro Lime Noodles turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice will elevate the taste significantly compared to dried herbs or bottled lime juice.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your spice tolerance. Start small and increase gradually.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Undercook your noodles slightly for extra chewiness, as they will continue to cook when mixed with hot oil.
• Mix Thoroughly: After combining all ingredients, make sure to mix well so that every noodle is coated evenly with the sauce.
• Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the noodles right after preparation while they are still warm.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture and crunch!

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Noodles

Cilantro Lime Noodles pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp or veggies add a light touch that’s perfect alongside these flavorful noodles.
2. Asian Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the zesty noodles. Drizzle it with rice vinegar for added zing.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled with spices pairs deliciously well, enhancing the overall taste experience.
4. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame makes for an easy protein-rich side that balances out your meal nicely.
5. Fried Tofu Bites: Crispy fried tofu offers a satisfying crunch; dip them in soy sauce for an umami kick.
6. Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add crunch and richness to your meal without overwhelming it.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting accompaniment that complements Asian flavors beautifully.
8. Kimchi: Spicy kimchi not only adds heat but also provides probiotic benefits, making it a healthy side choice!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cilantro Lime Noodles, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using stale ingredients – Fresh cilantro and garlic are key to vibrant flavors. Always use fresh herbs and garlic for the best taste.
• Overcooking the noodles – Undercooking your noodles is essential for a chewy texture. Aim for al dente and rinse them quickly in cold water.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Taste as you go! Each ingredient plays a role, so adjust the vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce or lime juice based on your preference.
• Skipping the oil heating step – Heating the oil is crucial as it releases flavors from garlic and cilantro. Don’t skip this step for maximum aroma.
• Not mixing thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients are well combined. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout your Cilantro Lime Noodles.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cilantro Lime Noodles in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles

• For longer storage, freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Noodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cilantro Lime Noodles:

Can I customize my Cilantro Lime Noodles?

You can easily customize this recipe by adding proteins like chicken or tofu, or incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas.

How spicy are these Cilantro Lime Noodles?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you add. For mild noodles, skip the chili powder; for extra heat, add more!

What type of noodles work best?

While knife cut noodles are delicious, you can use any dry noodles like spaghetti or rice noodles for this dish.

Can I make these Cilantro Lime Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your sauces are also gluten-free for a safe meal option.

How do I make these vegan?

This recipe is already vegetarian! To keep it vegan-friendly, just choose plant-based sauces like mushroom oyster sauce made from mushrooms.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Noodles offer a delightful blend of savory and zesty flavors that make them perfect for any occasion. Their simplicity allows you to customize them with various proteins and vegetables according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!