15-Minute Savory Peanut Noodles
Chewy noodles tossed in a creamy, savory peanut sauce that comes together in just 15 minutes. A quick weeknight dinner with a kick of chili and a tangy finish that tastes like takeout made fresh at home.
For 4 servings
- boil · ~8 min
Cook the noodles.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking.
TIPRinse with cold water to remove surface starch and keep noodles from clumping. - mix · ~2 min
Make the peanut sauce.
1.In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and warm water.2.Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add an extra splash of water if too thick.3.Stir in hot red chili powder and a pinch of salt.TIPWarm water helps the peanut butter loosen up. Whisk briskly for a silky sauce. - saute · ~1 min
Sauté the aromatics.
1.Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat.2.Add the white parts of scallions, minced garlic, and grated ginger.3.Sauté until fragrant and just turning golden, about 1 minute.TIPWork fast — garlic and ginger burn quickly and turn bitter. - mix · ~2 min
Toss noodles with sauce.
1.Add the drained noodles to the wok.2.Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles.3.Toss everything together using tongs until every strand is coated and warmed through.TIPUse tongs for the best control — they help lift and separate the noodles without breaking them. - assemble · ~1 min
Plate and finish with garnishes.
1.Divide noodles among four bowls.2.Top with julienned cucumber, sliced green scallion tops, and crushed peanuts.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a nuttier flavor, toast the crushed peanuts in a dry pan for 30 seconds before garnishing.
- 2Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- 3Warm water is key for whisking the peanut butter into a smooth, silky sauce without lumps.
- 4Cook the garlic and ginger only until fragrant—about 1 minute—to avoid bitterness.
- 5If the sauce thickens as it sits, add a splash of warm water before tossing with noodles.
- 6Use tongs to toss the noodles with sauce; they lift and separate strands without breaking them.
Adapt it for your goals.
High-protein
Add shredded cooked chicken or tofu for a protein boost, making this a more filling main dish.
veganVegan
Ensure the noodles are egg-free (use rice noodles or 100% wheat noodles) and use a vegan-certified soy sauce; the recipe is already vegan-friendly.
low oilLow-oil
Skip the sesame oil in the sauce and sauté the aromatics in a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to reduce fat without losing flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant Protein
Peanut butter and crushed peanuts provide a good source of plant-based protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Healthy Fats from Peanuts
Unsweetened peanut butter offers monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health when eaten in moderation.
Ginger for Digestion
Fresh ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion, making this dish gentle on the stomach.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture from peanut pieces, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy—whisk in an extra tablespoon of warm water if needed.
