Cilantro Lime Noodles

Cilantro Lime Noodles are a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and a hint of spice. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a zesty twist to your usual noodle dishes. With the vibrant taste of cilantro and the tanginess of lime, these noodles are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, making them a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those with a busy schedule.
• Flavorful: The combination of cilantro, garlic, and lime creates a refreshing and savory profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or top with your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and minimal processed components, these noodles are both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a potluck with friends, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Cilantro Lime Noodles easy and efficient. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heat-proof bowl
• Pot for cooking noodles
• Strainer or colander
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heat-proof bowl: Essential for mixing ingredients safely after pouring hot oil.
• Pot for cooking noodles: A good pot ensures even cooking of the noodles while preventing sticking.
• Strainer or colander: Helps drain excess water from the noodles quickly after cooking.

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

1. Cook your noodles until slightly undercooked, so they remain chewy.
2. Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to stop them from cooking further. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large heat-proof bowl, add the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or red onion, curry powder, sugar, and chili powder.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

1. Heat oil in the pot over medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until it gets hot and starts bubbling.
2. To test readiness, add a small piece of garlic; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

1. Turn off the heat once the oil is ready.
2. Carefully pour the hot oil over the bowl filled with cilantro mixture. Enjoy the sizzle as you mix everything well.

Step 5: Add Sauces

1. Stir in vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice into the mixture until everything is combined.

Step 6: Combine Noodles with Sauce

1. Add cooked noodles into the bowl.
2. Toss thoroughly to coat all strands in the flavorful sauce mixture.
3. Taste test! Feel free to adjust seasoning with more vegetarian oyster sauce if desired.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

1. Drizzle with chili oil or sauce if you want an extra kick.
2. Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Noodles while hot!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles

Cilantro Lime Noodles are a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the noodles hot as a standalone meal, allowing the zesty flavors to shine through.

With Protein

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed option that complements the cilantro and lime perfectly.

In a Salad

• Toss the noodles with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots for a refreshing salad.

With Extra Garnishes

• Top with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or additional cilantro for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

As Meal Prep

• Prepare a larger batch for meal prep. These noodles store well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Noodles

Perfecting your Cilantro Lime Noodles is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance the flavors and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime juice will provide the best flavor. Avoid dried versions for this dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder noodles, skip the chili powder. For more heat, add extra chili oil at the end.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Slightly undercooking your noodles ensures they retain a chewy texture, absorbing the sauce better.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined after adding oil and sauces for even flavor distribution.
• Serve Immediately: These noodles taste best when served fresh and warm right after preparation for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Noodles

Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried spring rolls add a crunchy contrast and can be filled with vegetables or protein.
2. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is an easy snack that pairs wonderfully with Asian flavors.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing complements the noodles’ zestiness.
4. Tofu Skewers: Marinated grilled tofu skewers provide a hearty protein option that blends perfectly with noodle dishes.
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce adds nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and balances out the meal’s flavors beautifully.
7. Dumplings: Either steamed or pan-fried dumplings make for a satisfying side dish that enhances the dining experience.
8. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of cilantro lime noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Noodles – Undercook your noodles slightly to maintain a chewy texture. Rinse them with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cilantro and garlic enhance the dish’s flavor. Avoid using dried herbs or pre-minced garlic, as they lack the vibrancy of fresh ingredients.
• Neglecting Oil Temperature – Pouring oil that isn’t hot enough over your mixture won’t release flavors properly. Ensure it is bubbling before combining it with your herbs and spices.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings – Taste your dish before serving. If it needs more flavor, add extra vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce or lime juice for balance.
• Forgetting About Spiciness – If you love heat, don’t skip the chili powder! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance for an enjoyable kick.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cilantro Lime Noodles in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles

• For longer storage, freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container.
• They will maintain quality for about 1 month.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Noodles

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat noodles in an oven-safe dish for about 10-15 minutes covered with foil.
• Microwave – Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Toss noodles until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Cilantro Lime Noodles.

What makes Cilantro Lime Noodles special?

Cilantro Lime Noodles combine fresh herbs and zesty lime for a refreshing meal that’s both simple and satisfying.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Noodles vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring all sauces used are plant-based.

How spicy are these Cilantro Lime Noodles?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you choose to add. Feel free to adjust according to your preference!

What dishes pair well with Cilantro Lime Noodles?

These noodles go wonderfully with grilled vegetables, tofu, or even as a side with Asian-inspired main dishes.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Noodles offer a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to many tastes. They’re easy to customize; feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it even more personal. Enjoy this vibrant dish anytime you crave something light yet fulfilling!