Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a delightful blend of zesty flavors, perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe combines fresh cilantro, tangy lime, and a hint of spice, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. The noodles are quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish, these noodles bring vibrant flavors to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that impresses.
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of cilantro and lime creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it alongside your favorite protein for added heartiness.
- Customizable: Adjust the spiciness with optional chili powder to suit your palate.
- Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this Cilantro Lime Noodles recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pot
- Heatproof bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pot: Essential for cooking the noodles perfectly without overcooking them.
- Heatproof bowl: Allows you to mix hot oil with fresh ingredients safely.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and shallots quick and easy.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients efficiently.
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 Mixture
- 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
- Cook your noodles according to package instructions but slightly undercook them until they are still very chewy.
- Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop cooking further. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Fresh Ingredients
- In a large heatproof bowl, add the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or red onion, curry powder, sugar, and optional chili powder.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In the same pot used for the noodles, heat oil over medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes until hot.
- To test if it’s ready, add a small piece of garlic; it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Mix Hot Oil with Ingredients
- Turn off the heat and pour the hot oil over the mixture in the bowl.
- Enjoy the sizzle as you mix well until everything is combined.
Step 5: Add Sauces & Lime Juice
- Stir in vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and lime juice into the mixture.
- Mix well to ensure all flavors meld together.
Step 6: Combine Noodles with Sauce Mixture
- Add cooked noodles into the bowl and toss until they are well coated in the sauce mixture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more vegetarian oyster sauce if needed.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
- Finish with some chili oil or sauce if desired for extra heat.
- Serve while hot and enjoy your delicious Cilantro Lime Noodles!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles
Cilantro Lime Noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a hearty dish, these noodles can complement many flavors and ingredients.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Sautéed Bell Peppers – Add colorful bell peppers for a crunchy texture and extra nutrients.
- Steamed Broccoli – Serve alongside steamed broccoli to enhance the dish’s health benefits and add a vibrant green color.
As a Salad
- Cold Noodle Salad – Chill the noodles after cooking, then toss with additional lime juice and fresh veggies for a refreshing salad.
- Cilantro Lime Dressing – Drizzle a cilantro lime dressing on top for an added burst of flavor.
Topped with Proteins
- Grilled Chicken – Slice grilled chicken on top for added protein, making it more filling.
- Tofu – For a vegetarian option, pan-fry tofu cubes until golden and mix them in.
As Part of a Bowl
- Noodle Bowl – Create a noodle bowl by layering the noodles with your choice of grains, proteins, and toppings like avocado or sesame seeds.
How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Noodles
Perfecting your Cilantro Lime Noodles is easy with these tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cilantro and garlic will enhance the flavor significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the chili powder to your preferred spice level; omit it entirely if you like it milder.
- Oil Temperature Matters – Ensure the oil is hot enough before pouring over the ingredients; this helps release essential oils from the garlic and cilantro.
- Taste as You Go – Don’t hesitate to taste your mixture before serving; adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Serve Immediately – For the best texture, serve the noodles right after mixing them with the sauce while they’re still warm.
Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Noodles
Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Noodles can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Asian Slaw – Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame oil complements the noodles beautifully.
- Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables make a light and refreshing side.
- Garlic Edamame – These protein-packed beans seasoned with garlic add an enjoyable bite.
- Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup pairs well with the zesty flavors of the noodles.
- Cucumber Salad – A simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a crisp contrast.
- Kimchi – This fermented dish brings heat and tanginess that balances well with the noodles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Cilantro Lime Noodles, it’s easy to overlook some crucial steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not preparing noodles correctly: Undercooking your noodles is key. Make sure they are chewy; otherwise, they will turn mushy in the final dish.
- Overheating the oil: If the oil gets too hot, it can burn the garlic and shallots. Keep an eye on it and test with a small piece of garlic for sizzle.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your noodles after mixing. You may need extra vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce or lime juice for the perfect flavor.
- Ignoring freshness of cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the dish significantly. Use only fresh herbs and avoid dried ones for this recipe.
- Overlooking optional ingredients: Don’t miss out on chili powder if you enjoy some spice. Adjust according to your taste preferences for a delightful kick.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the noodles cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Separate portions with parchment paper if freezing in bulk.
Reheating Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or oil to a pan over medium heat, then stir-fry until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cilantro Lime Noodles that may help enhance your cooking experience.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute with any dry noodle of choice like rice noodles or spaghetti based on preference.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and ensure that the sauces used, like soy sauce, are gluten-free as well.
Can I add protein to my Cilantro Lime Noodles?
Absolutely! Consider adding tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make it more filling.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, consider using parsley or just leaving it out entirely; other flavors will still shine.
How spicy can I make these noodles?
You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the chili powder. For more heat, add fresh chili peppers or chili oil.
Final Thoughts
These Cilantro Lime Noodles offer a delightful balance of zesty flavors and satisfying textures. They’re not only quick and easy but also versatile—customize them with proteins or veggies based on your preference. Try making this recipe today and enjoy its comforting appeal!
Cilantro Lime Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles are a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the freshness of cilantro and the zing of lime in every bite. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. In just 20 minutes, you can prepare a satisfying meal that is not only delicious but also customizable to your taste. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with proteins like grilled chicken or tofu, these noodles promise a delightful culinary experience that bursts with flavor.
Ingredients
- 5.2 oz dry noodles (2 servings)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 small shallot (or red onion)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine cilantro, garlic, shallot, curry powder, sugar, and optional chili powder.
- Heat oil in the same pot over medium heat until hot; test with garlic for readiness.
- Pour hot oil over the bowl mixture and mix well.
- Stir in mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice until combined.
- Toss cooked noodles into the sauce mixture until well coated; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with chili oil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 220g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
