Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a delightful fusion dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime with the comforting texture of noodles. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of spices adds depth, making each bite a flavorful experience. Plus, the dish is vegetarian-friendly, catering to different dietary preferences while remaining utterly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Fresh and Flavorful: With fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice, every bite bursts with refreshing flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These noodles can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week for lunch or dinner.
- Great for Sharing: Serve it as a side dish or a main course; it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking Cilantro Lime Noodles easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Heat-proof bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling noodles evenly and efficiently.
- Heat-proof bowl: Necessary for mixing hot oil with fresh ingredients without risk of melting.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for perfect flavor balance.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping herbs and vegetables quick and easy.
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
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add your dry noodles and cook until slightly underdone; they should remain chewy.
- Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Fresh Ingredients
- In a large heat-proof bowl, combine:
- Chopped cilantro
- Minced garlic
- Chopped shallot or red onion
- Curry powder
- Sugar
- Chili powder (if using)
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In the same pot used for noodles, heat oil over medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until small bubbles appear.
- To test if it’s hot enough, add a small piece of garlic; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Turn off the heat once the oil is hot.
- Carefully pour the hot oil over the mix in your heat-proof bowl.
- Enjoy watching it sizzle as you stir everything together.
Step 5: Add Sauces and Juice
- Stir in:
- Vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce
- Dark soy sauce
- Lime juice
- Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Noodles
- Add your cooked noodles to the bowl.
- Toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce mixture.
Step 7: Serve Hot
- Taste your noodles; adjust seasoning with more vegetarian oyster sauce if desired.
- Finish with chili oil or sauce if you like extra spice.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty dish, these noodles can adapt to your preferences.
As a Light Lunch
- Paired with a fresh salad for a refreshing bite.
- Enjoy with sliced avocado on top for added creaminess.
With Grilled Proteins
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add tofu for a vegetarian option rich in flavor and texture.
As Part of a Noodle Bowl
- Top with sesame seeds and green onions for extra crunch.
- Include steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
With Extra Sauces
- Drizzle with chili oil for an extra kick.
- Serve with soy sauce or hoisin on the side for those who prefer more flavor.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Noodles
To achieve the best results with your Cilantro Lime Noodles, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh cilantro and garlic enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Adjust spice levels – Modify the chili powder based on your heat preference.
- Do not overcook noodles – Slightly undercooking them ensures they maintain their chewy texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Mix quickly after adding oil – This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without losing freshness.
- Taste before serving – Always sample your noodles to adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish creatively – Use lime wedges, extra cilantro, or chopped peanuts for added flair.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Noodles
Complement your Cilantro Lime Noodles with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall experience.
- Asian Slaw – A crunchy mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds texture and flavor.
- Edamame – Steamed edamame provides protein and pairs well with noodle dishes.
- Spring Rolls – Fresh or fried spring rolls filled with vegetables make a great appetizer option.
- Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup brings comfort and balances the zesty noodles.
- Spicy Pickles – Tangy pickles offer a delightful contrast to the savory noodles.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection complement the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Cilantro Lime Noodles, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the noodle rinsing: Not rinsing your noodles can result in a sticky texture. Always rinse them in cold water after cooking to keep them chewy.
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking noodles too long can make them mushy. Aim for al dente and remember they will continue to cook slightly after being drained.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland noodles. Always taste and adjust with more vegetarian oyster sauce or lime juice as needed.
- Ignoring oil temperature: Pouring oil that’s not hot enough won’t release flavors effectively. Wait until you see small bubbles before pouring it over your cilantro mix.
- Forgetting to mix thoroughly: Not mixing the ingredients well can result in uneven flavor distribution. Make sure everything is combined for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the noodles to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Divide into portions for easier thawing later.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover noodles with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions about Cilantro Lime Noodles.
Can I use other types of noodles for Cilantro Lime Noodles?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with rice noodles, spaghetti, or any preferred variety based on your dietary needs and preferences.
How spicy are Cilantro Lime Noodles?
The spice level is adjustable. You can add chili powder for heat or leave it out if you prefer milder flavors.
Can I make Cilantro Lime Noodles vegan?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegetarian, and you can ensure all sauces used are vegan-friendly.
What dishes pair well with Cilantro Lime Noodles?
These noodles complement grilled vegetables, tofu stir-fry, or even as a side dish with Asian-inspired proteins.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro Lime Noodles are not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This dish is versatile; you can customize it by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp or adjusting the spice levels according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that brings warmth and joy!
Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines fresh cilantro and zesty lime for a burst of flavor in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests at gatherings. The noodles, tossed in a savory sauce with just the right amount of spice, cater to vegetarians and can be customized to suit your taste. Ready in just 20 minutes, these noodles are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to pair them with your favorite proteins or serve them as a light meal.
Ingredients
- 5.2 oz dry noodles (your choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 small shallot (or red onion)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the dry noodles until slightly underdone; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a heat-proof bowl, mix chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or onion, curry powder, sugar, and chili powder (if using).
- Heat oil in the same pot until hot and bubbling; pour over the herb mixture.
- Stir well and add vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and lime juice.
- Toss cooked noodles into the bowl until well coated.
- Serve hot, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
