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Vegan Cilantro Lime Noodles

Vegan Cilantro Lime Noodles
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Vegan Cilantro Lime Noodles are a quick, vibrant, and refreshing plant-based dish perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or colorful side. Featuring bright lime juice, fresh cilantro, and soft rice noodles tossed in a zesty, umami-rich dressing, this recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and easily customizable with your favorite veggies, proteins, and spice levels for a nutritious and satisfying meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Noodles

  • Rice noodles (quantity as per package instructions, typically 7-8 oz)

Dressing

  • Freshly squeezed lime juice (2 tablespoons)
  • Lime zest (1 teaspoon)
  • Fresh cilantro, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
  • Minced garlic (2 cloves)
  • Soy sauce or tamari (2 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil or sesame oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Maple syrup or agave (1 teaspoon)
  • Chili flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon)

Optional Add-ins

  • Julienne carrots (1/2 cup)
  • Snap peas (1/2 cup)
  • Thinly sliced bell peppers (1/2 cup)
  • Baked tofu, tempeh, or edamame (1/2 cup)
  • Chopped peanuts or cashews (2 tablespoons, toasted)
  • Fresh mint or basil (optional, to substitute part of cilantro)
  • Fresh chopped jalapenos or sriracha (for spice)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, usually by soaking in hot water until tender but still slightly firm. Drain well, then toss with a little olive or sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Make the lime-cilantro dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, soy sauce or tamari, a drizzle of olive or sesame oil, and maple syrup. Taste and adjust to balance the tanginess, saltiness, and sweetness as desired.
  3. Combine and toss: Pour the dressing over the cooked noodles and gently toss until the noodles are evenly coated and absorb the flavors.
  4. Add extras and seasoning: Sprinkle optional chili flakes for heat or add your favorite veggies and protein such as julienned carrots, snap peas, baked tofu, or edamame. Toss once more to mix everything thoroughly.
  5. Serve immediately: For the freshest flavor, enjoy your Vegan Cilantro Lime Noodles right away. Alternatively, refrigerate briefly and serve chilled for a refreshing variation.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice for the brightest and most vibrant flavor.
  • Do not overcook the noodles; leaving them slightly firm maintains a pleasant texture.
  • Finely chop cilantro to ensure even distribution of flavor throughout the dish.
  • If adding nuts, toast them beforehand to enhance crunch and natural oils.
  • Adjust seasonings gradually as lime juice and soy sauce intensity can vary between brands.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; keep dressing separate if reheating to preserve freshness.
  • Freezing is possible but may soften noodle texture; freeze components separately for best results.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or oil to refresh noodles and avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan, cilantro lime noodles, plant-based, gluten free, quick recipe, healthy noodles, lime, cilantro, rice noodles

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/vegan-cilantro-lime-noodles/