Introduction:

Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame is a refreshing and healthy dish perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave something light yet satisfying. This salad features buckwheat soba noodles, known for their slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture, combined with protein-rich edamame beans and crisp, colorful vegetables like shredded carrots and sliced cucumbers. Tossed in a tangy and savory sesame-soy dressing, it’s bursting with Asian-inspired flavors that are both bright and comforting. Easy to prepare ahead of time and served cold, this dish is ideal for quick lunches, picnic meals, or a light dinner packed with fiber and plant-based protein.

How to Make Delicious Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame:

Cook Time:

20 minutes (10 minutes prep, 10 minutes cooking)

Nutritious details:

• Calories per serving: ~320
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbs: ~45g
• Fat: ~8g
• High in: Plant-based protein, Fiber, Vitamins A & C

Ingredients:

• 8 oz soba noodles
• 1 cup shelled edamame (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• Optional: fresh cilantro or mint for garnish

Detailed Instructions:

1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles.
2. If using frozen edamame, cook according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
4. Add cooled soba noodles, edamame, shredded carrot, cucumber slices, and green onions to the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with fresh cilantro or mint if desired.
6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Expert Tips:

• Rinse the noodles well under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
• Use freshly grated ginger for the most vibrant flavor.
• Add a splash of lime juice for extra brightness.
• For added crunch, toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews.
• This salad keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

Conclusion:

Chilled Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame is a delicious, light, and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any season. With its combination of chewy noodles, crisp veggies, and flavorful dressing, it offers a satisfying plant-based protein boost and vibrant Asian-inspired flavors. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, this salad is sure to refresh and delight.