Roasted peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and chili form a bold, creamy sauce that clings to noodles in this quick weeknight dish. Fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger round out the flavor, and the whole meal is ready in under 30 minutes. Toppings such as scallions, crushed peanuts, and fresh herbs add crunch and brightness.
½cupcreamy natural peanut butterunsweetened, unsalted for best balance
¼cuplow-sodium soy sauceor tamari for gluten-free option
1tbsptoasted sesame oil
1tbspfresh lime juicefrom about 1/2 a lime
1.5tbspmaple syrupor agave nectar
1tspfresh grated ginger
1clovegarlicminced
2–3tbsphot waterto thin the sauce to desired consistency
For the Noodles & Vegetables:
8ozrice noodlespreferably medium-width flat
1tbspneutral cooking oilsuch as avocado or canola
1cupshredded carrotsfresh or pre-shredded
1cupthinly sliced bell peppersred or yellow, for sweetness and color
1cupsnow peastrimmed
For Garnish:
¼cuproasted peanutsroughly chopped
2tbspfresh cilantrochopped
2tbspgreen onionsthinly sliced
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Instructions
Prepare the Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, maple syrup, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Add hot water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Set aside.
Cook the Noodles: Boil a large pot of water and cook rice noodles according to package instructions (typically 5–7 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toss lightly in a drop of oil to keep loose.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a wok or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C), heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil. Add carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until brightly colored and just tender-crisp.
Combine and Coat: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add noodles and peanut sauce to the sautéed vegetables. Toss thoroughly with tongs until the noodles are evenly coated and warmed through, about 2 minutes.
Plate and Garnish: Transfer to serving bowls. Top with roasted peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for flavor and crunch. Serve warm or cold.
Notes
For extra heat, add 1 tsp of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
If using chunky peanut butter, blend the sauce for a smoother finish.