Description
This soba noodle recipe features crisp watermelon radish, cucumber, carrots, and a vibrant sesame-ginger dressing. It’s a quick, family-friendly, and healthy meal, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Ingredients
- 8 oz buckwheat soba noodles
- 1 large watermelon radish (about 5 oz), thinly sliced
- 1 medium cucumber (about 8 oz), thinly sliced or julienned
- 2 medium carrots (about 4 oz), shredded or julienned
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Soba Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to package directions, typically 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain immediately in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water to prevent sticking and stop the cooking process. Let them drain completely for a few minutes until cool to the touch.
- Prepare Vegetables: While noodles cook, prepare your fresh vegetables. Thinly slice the watermelon radish into delicate rounds and the cucumber into half-moons. Shred or thinly julienne the carrots.
- Whisk Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the grated fresh ginger, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. Whisk everything together vigorously until well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled, drained soba noodles and all the prepared vegetables. Pour the vibrant dressing over everything. Toss gently with tongs until all the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing, taking care not to break the delicate noodles.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing twist.
Notes
For gluten-free, use 100% buckwheat soba or brown rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. Boost protein with cooked chicken, shrimp, edamame, or tofu. Regular red radishes or daikon radish can substitute watermelon radish. Other veggie swaps include bell peppers, shredded cabbage, or snow peas. Add red pepper flakes for heat or lime juice for zing. If dressing tastes too salty, add another 0.5 Tbsp maple syrup. This dish is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Tossing, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (about 200g)
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: soba noodles, sesame ginger, watermelon radish, healthy, easy dinner, quick meal, family friendly, vegetarian, meal prep, Asian