Colorful Asian Noodle Salad

Name: Colorful Asian Noodle Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g rice noodles; 1 red bell pepper, julienned; 1 yellow bell pepper, julienned; 1 cucumber, sliced; 2 carrots, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 3 green onions, chopped; Fresh cilantro for garnish; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I absolutely love making this Colorful Asian Noodle Salad whenever I want something fresh and vibrant. The crunch of the vegetables combined with the chewy noodles and a zesty dressing creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. It’s not only quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Whether it’s a potluck, a picnic, or just a meal at home, this salad always brings a splash of color and flavor to the table, making it an instant hit with family and friends.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:33:32.607Z

When I first tried making this Colorful Asian Noodle Salad, I was amazed at how the flavors came together so beautifully. The fresh ingredients, like crunchy bell peppers and crisp cucumbers, really shine through, complemented by a tangy dressing. I learned that letting the salad sit for a few minutes before serving allows the noodles to absorb the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.

One time, I added some grilled chicken to the mix, and it took the salad to a whole new level! Don’t shy away from experimenting with different proteins or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Each variation was a hit at our gatherings, proving just how versatile this dish can be.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and textures that please the eyes and palate
Packed with fresh, crisp vegetables for a nutrient-rich meal
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests

      

Noodle Preparation Tips

Cooking rice noodles requires careful attention to avoid overcooking. I recommend using the package instructions as a guideline but start checking them a minute or two early, as they can become too soft quickly. After draining, rinsing with cold water not only stops the cooking process but also prevents them from sticking together, enhancing the salad’s overall texture.

If you find rice noodles difficult to work with, consider substituting with soba noodles or whole wheat spaghetti. They require similar cooking times and will provide a hearty base for your salad. Just remember to check their doneness periodically to achieve that perfect al dente texture, which adds a nice chewiness to each bite.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of this salad lies in its vibrant vegetables, which contribute both flavor and crunch. Feel free to get creative with your veggie choices! Snap peas, shredded broccoli, or even edamame can add interesting textures and nutritional benefits. Use fresh, seasonal produce to enhance the salad's freshness and color.

When slicing or julienning your vegetables, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even distribution in every bite. This not only provides a pleasing aesthetic but also ensures that each ingredient complements the flavors of the dressing. If you're short on time, pre-cut veggies from the grocery store can save valuable preparation time without compromising the salad's quality.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the benefits of this Asian Noodle Salad is its excellent make-ahead potential. You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing a day in advance, keeping them separate until serving. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the crispness of the vegetables, and refrigerate the dressing in a jar.

If you’re planning to serve this salad at a potluck or picnic, consider what to do if it’s made ahead. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving can brighten the flavors, especially if it has been sitting for a while. Just give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing, and you'll have a refreshing dish ready to impress your guests!

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting to make the salad preparation smooth and enjoyable!

Salad Ingredients

200g rice noodles
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 yellow bell pepper, julienned
1 cucumber, sliced
2 carrots, shredded
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
3 green onions, chopped
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Once all ingredients are ready, you can begin assembling your salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your colorful salad.

Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the noodles are cooking, chop the red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, carrots, and red cabbage. Place all the prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes until well combined.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions. Enjoy your vibrant, nutritious salad!

Your Colorful Asian Noodle Salad is now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra sustenance. This salad can be made ahead of time
just keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavors of your Colorful Asian Noodle Salad, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts as a garnish. Not only do they add an extra layer of crunch, but they also provide a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dressing beautifully. For spice lovers, a dash of sriracha can be included in the dressing to give it a kick.

Another way to customize this dish is by incorporating protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can transform this salad into a heartier meal. Just ensure any protein is cooked and cooled before adding it to prevent wilting the fresh vegetables.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. It ensures that you won't lose out on flavor while sticking to dietary restrictions. Additionally, consider using zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables as a fun alternative to rice noodles for a low-carb twist.

For those following a vegan diet, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to maintain that sweetness while keeping the salad entirely plant-based. This simple change keeps the integrity of the dish while accommodating different dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and store it in the fridge. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What type of noodles can I use?

Rice noodles work best for a traditional flavor, but you can also use soba or whole grain noodles based on your preference.

→ Is it possible to make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit any meat and you can replace it with tofu or additional veggies for protein.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just re-toss before serving.