Easy Spicy Peanut Noodles: Your New Go-To Ramen Recipe with Cucumber & Cilantro

Craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for any day of the week? Look no further than these sensational Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber. Imagine tender ramen noodles coated in a rich, creamy, and zesty peanut sauce, complemented by crisp cucumber, fresh scallions, and vibrant cilantro. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that will quickly become a staple in your rotation, whether served warm for dinner or chilled as a refreshing lunch.

As many of us can attest, falling into a dinner rut is all too common. The same few meals on repeat can quickly lead to mealtime boredom. Breaking free from this cycle often involves a conscious effort to explore new recipes and broaden our culinary horizons. One of the most rewarding ways to do this is by dedicating time each week to trying something new, whether from a cherished cookbook or a trusted online source. Our recipe archive, for instance, offers a wealth of ideas that can be sorted by category or ingredient, making it easier to discover your next favorite dish.

Taking a little extra time to plan your weekly meals, jot down a shopping list, and incorporate fresh ideas can transform your week. It introduces excitement to the dinner table and often rewards you with a new, beloved recipe to add to your personal list of favorites. And trust us, these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber are definitely here to stay on that list. They are incredibly satisfying, come together in a flash, and are remarkably versatile, tasting equally fantastic at room temperature or as a delicious cold leftover dish. The secret, as you’ll soon discover, lies almost entirely in the incredible depth of flavor packed into that luscious peanut sauce!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Spicy Peanut Noodle Recipe

This recipe isn’t just another noodle dish; it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and a fantastic addition to your meal prep repertoire. Here’s why it stands out:

• Unbeatable Flavor Profile: The peanut sauce is a masterpiece of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes, creating a complex and addictive taste that will have you coming back for more.
• Lightning-Fast Preparation: From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These noodles hold up beautifully in the fridge and are delicious served cold, making them an excellent option for packed lunches or ready-to-eat dinners throughout the week.
• Highly Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level, add your favorite proteins, or incorporate more vegetables to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a gathering, these flavorful noodles are almost universally loved.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Spicy Peanut Noodles

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Irresistible Peanut Sauce:

• PEANUT BUTTER: The star of the show! Opt for natural, creamy, unsweetened, and preferably unsalted peanut butter. Its smooth texture is essential for a velvety sauce. Avoid heavily processed or sweetened varieties, as they can alter the sauce’s balance.
• SOY SAUCE: Provides the fundamental umami and savory depth. Use a good quality soy sauce; low-sodium is an option if you’re watching your salt intake.
• LIME JUICE: Freshly squeezed lime juice is non-negotiable! It adds a bright, zesty tang and a crucial acidic punch that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• TOASTED SESAME OIL + SESAME SEEDS: Toasted sesame oil is a flavor powerhouse, imparting a wonderfully nutty aroma that is characteristic of many Asian dishes. It’s a pantry staple for good reason. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also adds a delightful textural crunch and visual appeal.
• SAMBAL OELEK: This Indonesian chili garlic paste is where the “spicy” in spicy peanut noodles comes from. It offers a clean, pungent heat with a hint of garlic. We highly recommend the Huey Fong brand, widely available in most grocery stores. Feel free to adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat!
• RICE VINEGAR: Another touch of acid that contributes to the sauce’s complexity and brightness. If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, a little extra lime juice can serve as a suitable substitute.
• FRESH GINGER + GARLIC: These aromatics are absolutely essential for a truly authentic and vibrant flavor. Their pungent, warm notes elevate the sauce significantly. Using a microplane to finely grate them ensures they melt seamlessly into the sauce.
• RED PEPPER FLAKES (OPTIONAL): For an extra kick of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce mixture.

For the Noodle Base & Fresh Garnishes:

• DRIED RAMEN NOODLES: The foundation of this dish. You can use basic instant dried ramen noodles (just discard the seasoning packet!) or fresh ramen noodles for an even more luxurious texture. The key is not to overcook them; aim for al dente. Rinsing them under cool water after cooking is crucial to prevent them from sticking and to stop the cooking process.
• ENGLISH CUCUMBER: Sliced thinly, English cucumber adds a wonderful crisp texture, a refreshing coolness, and a beautiful pop of green color. Its mild flavor provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• SCALLIONS (GREEN ONIONS): We utilize both the white and green parts for their distinct yet complementary flavors. Don’t be shy with the scallions; their mild oniony bite and fresh aroma are integral to the dish.
• FRESH CILANTRO: A generous handful of fresh cilantro leaves elevates the dish with its bright, herbaceous notes. Fresh herbs truly make every meal better!
• CRUSHED PEANUTS: For garnish, a sprinkle of finely crushed dry-roasted, unsalted peanuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall nutty flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Spicy Peanut Noodles

Creating these incredible spicy peanut noodles is straightforward and quick, perfect for any home cook. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result:

1. Boil the Water: Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial for properly cooking your ramen noodles.
2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce Mixture: While the water heats, gather a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the natural creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, toasted sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, sambal oelek (chile garlic paste), rice vinegar, finely grated fresh ginger, finely grated fresh garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you desire extra heat). Whisk all these ingredients together thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth and well combined. This is the heart of your dish, so ensure it’s perfectly blended!





3. Cook and Chill the Noodles: Add the dried ramen noodles to the boiling salted water. Cook them according to the package instructions, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until they are perfectly al dente (tender but with a slight bite). As soon as they are cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and immediately rinse them under cool running water. Toss them until they are completely cold. This step is crucial; it stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from becoming clumpy. Drain them again very well.
4. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Transfer the rinsed, drained ramen noodles directly into the large mixing bowl with your prepared peanut sauce. Using tongs, gently toss the noodles until they are thoroughly and evenly coated in the rich, spicy peanut sauce. If the sauce seems a bit too thick and is difficult to coat the noodles, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it slightly until it reaches your desired consistency.



5. Add Fresh Garnishes: To the coated noodles, add the sliced English cucumber, finely chopped fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced scallions. Toss everything gently once more to distribute these fresh ingredients throughout the noodles. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – perhaps a bit more lime for brightness or a dash more soy sauce for savoriness.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the spicy peanut noodles at room temperature for the best flavor experience. Garnish generously with finely crushed dry-roasted peanuts, extra fresh cilantro, and a few lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness. These noodles are also fantastic prepped ahead and served cold directly from the fridge!

Serving Suggestions & Customization Ideas

These spicy peanut noodles are wonderfully substantial on their own, making for a fulfilling vegetarian meal. However, they are also incredibly versatile and can be easily enhanced to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Add Protein: To make it a more complete meal, consider adding:
  • Sautéed Tofu: Cubed and pan-fried or baked tofu provides a fantastic texture and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
  • Grilled or Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken breast or thighs can be shredded and tossed into the noodles.
  • Shrimp: Quickly pan-seared shrimp adds a delicate, sweet seafood element.
  • Eggs: A jammy soft-boiled egg or a fried egg on top makes for a satisfying addition. You could also try our No Cook Spicy Tofu if you really want to kick up the heat and keep things simple!
• Boost Your Veggies: While cucumber, scallions, and cilantro add freshness, you can easily incorporate other vegetables for added nutrients and crunch. Try:
  • Shredded Carrots: For sweetness and color.
  • Sliced Bell Peppers: Adds a crisp texture and mild flavor.
  • Edamame: Cooked and shelled edamame provides protein and a tender bite.
  • Spinach or Bok Choy: Lightly wilted and mixed in for a green boost.
• Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more Sambal Oelek or a few extra red pepper flakes. For a milder version, simply reduce the Sambal Oelek.
• Garnish Galore: Beyond crushed peanuts and cilantro, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, a drizzle of sriracha, or even some chili oil for an extra layer of flavor.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the many charms of these spicy peanut noodles is how well they keep, making them an ideal candidate for meal prepping:

• Storage: Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more beautifully overnight, often tasting better the next day!
• Serving Cold: These noodles are truly exceptional served cold, straight from the fridge. They make a fantastic, refreshing lunch option.
• Sauce Consistency: It’s natural for the peanut sauce to thicken significantly as it chills in the refrigerator. If you prefer a thinner sauce when serving leftovers, simply add a tablespoon or two of water (or a tiny splash of lime juice for extra zing) and mix well until it reaches your desired consistency. No need to heat them up if you’re enjoying them cold!
• Freezing: We do not recommend freezing this dish, as the noodles can become mushy and the fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Spicy Peanut Noodles

Here are some common questions you might have when preparing this delicious noodle dish:

• Can I make these noodles vegetarian or vegan?
  Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian. To make it completely vegan, simply ensure your ramen noodles do not contain any egg, and confirm that your peanut butter is natural and free from animal products. Most standard dried ramen noodles (without the seasoning packet) are vegan.
• What kind of ramen noodles should I use?
  You can use standard instant dried ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet, which often contains MSG and unnecessary sodium), or opt for fresh ramen noodles for a chewier texture. Look for packets around 3 ounces each; you’ll need about 8-9 ounces total, which is typically 3 standard packets.
• How spicy are these noodles, and can I adjust the heat?
  The spice level is moderate as written, with 2 teaspoons of Sambal Oelek. You can easily adjust this to your liking! For less heat, start with 1 teaspoon or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add an extra teaspoon or two of Sambal Oelek, or sprinkle with extra red pepper flakes or chili oil when serving.
• Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
  Yes, definitely! This recipe is very adaptable. Shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), shelled edamame, blanched broccoli florets, or even finely chopped cabbage would be excellent additions for extra nutrition and crunch.
• How long do leftovers last?
  Leftover spicy peanut noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They taste fantastic cold, making them perfect for packed lunches. Remember that the sauce will thicken when chilled, so you might want to add a splash of water to loosen it before serving.

Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber

4.8 stars (18 ratings)

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Yield: 4 Servings

Prep: 15 minutes minutes

Cook: 5 minutes minutes

Total: 20 minutes minutes

Ramen noodles are cooked and tossed with a spicy peanut sauce, sliced cucumber, scallions, cilantro, lime wedges, and topped with crushed peanuts. This simple Asian noodle recipe is best served at room temperature or cold from the fridge. Serve on its own or with bulk it up with a side of sauteed tofu, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (32 grams) natural creamy peanut butter preferably unsalted
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (roughly ½ juicy lime) plus wedges for serving
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoons Sambal Oelek (chile garlic paste)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½-inch piece fresh ginger peeled, grated on a microplane
• 1 small garlic clove grated with a microplane or finely minced
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 8-9 ounces dried ramen noodles see note*
• ½ English cucumber (roughly 8 ounces) seeds scooped and discarded, quartered lengthwise and cut into thin ½-inch slices
• 3 scallions (white and green parts) thinly sliced on a bias
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
• dry-roasted unsalted peanuts finely crushed, for garnish

Instructions 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Prepare the Peanut Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, sesame seeds, sambal oeleek (chile garlic paste), rice vinegar, grated ginger, grated garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until well combined and smooth.
  
• Prepare the Noodles: Add the ramen noodles to the boiling salted water and cook according to the instructions, stirring frequently, or they are until al dente. Drain the noodles, run under cool water and toss until cold, and drain again. Transfer the noodles to the mixing bowl with the peanut sauce and toss gently with tongs until the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. Add the sliced cucumber, chopped cilantro, and sliced scallions, and toss again gently. Season to taste. Note: If you’re struggling tossing the noodles, you can add a tablespoon or so of water to help loosen the sauce.
  
• Serve room temperature topped with finely crushed peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken during chilling (it still tastes great!) – feel free to add a tablespoon of water to thin the sauce if you wish.

Tips for Success:

• Feel free to use dried or fresh ramen noodles for this recipe. You’ll want roughly 8 – 9 ounces total (if you’re using a brand like Nissin Instant Noodles, that is roughly 3 packages – remember to discard the seasoning packet!).

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 717kcal, Carbohydrates: 62g, Protein: 23g, Fat: 44g, Saturated Fat: 11g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 29g, Sodium: 2027mg, Fiber: 8g, Sugar: 4g

Author: Laura // A Beautiful Plate

Course: Pastas, Risottos, and Grains

Cuisine: Asian