Pin
Whenever I want to bring a little heat and punchy flavor to my meals, this Thai-style pasta salad hits the spot. It’s loaded with zippy flavors and crunchy bits that turn plain pasta into something super fun and colorful.
I first tasted this at a summer get-together, and the way the sauce soaked into those noodles made it a total hit for picnics and easy lunches.
Vibrant Ingredients
- Sliced green onion: Adds sharpness and a splash of color Try using both ends for balance
- Honey roasted peanuts: Gives a sweet crunch and an enjoyable nuttiness Grab a fresh pack for peak crunch
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Delivers freshness and bright greens Best when chopped just before tossing in
- Salt: Lifts every other flavor Use good sea salt if you have it
- Soy sauce: Brings saltiness and savory flavors Low-sodium types let you adjust more easily
- Honey: Cuts the spice with a mellow sweetness Use local if you can for extra flavor
- Sesame oil: Makes things toasty and deep Toasted sesame oil is worth it for that rich flavor
- Vegetable oil: Carries heat from the spices Clear-tasting oils like canola work well
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Serious kick and bold color Pick fresh flakes for bigger heat
- Bowtie pasta: Holds the sauce and keeps its shape after chilling Go for quality pasta for the best texture
Easy Step-By-Step Directions
- Add Fresh Garnishes:
- Just before serving, mix in the peanuts, cilantro, and green onions. Give it a gentle toss and serve chilled for extra crunch and refreshment.
- Chill the Pasta:
- Cover up the mixing bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least four hours or even overnight. The flavors really blend together the longer it sits.
- Dress the Salad:
- While the sauce is still warm, pour it all over the drained bowties. Mix well to make sure every piece gets coated—warm noodles soak up that dressing best.
- Mix the Dressing:
- Once you’ve made the infused oil, add in soy sauce, honey, and salt. Take the pan off the heat and stir till honey’s blended and the sauce looks smooth.
- Infuse the Oil:
- Warm up the sesame and vegetable oils in a little pan on medium. Shake in the chili flakes, stir for about 2 minutes, keeping an eye on it so the spices don’t burn.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill up a big pot with salted water and get it boiling. Toss in the pasta and cook it till it’s just right (check the package). Drain, then move to a bowl to start cooling.
Pin
The scent of sesame oil warming in the pan always makes me excited. It fills the house and brings back memories of summer nights trying out fun dishes together.
Storing Leftovers
Pop leftovers in the fridge with a lid and they’ll keep fresh for about three days. Peanuts can get a little soft, so toss a few new ones on top before digging in again for crunchy bites.
Swaps and Shortcuts
If you don’t want things too spicy, just use less or skip the chili flakes. For nut allergies, leave out peanuts or try sunflower seeds. Use agave if you prefer plant-based sweetness, and swap in tamari for a gluten-free twist instead of soy sauce.
Pin
How to Serve
Enjoy this pasta salad with crisp cucumber slices for a light meal, or take it to a cookout to pair with grilled skewers. It goes really well with tofu or shrimp for extra protein. Sometimes I toss in bell peppers for even more color and crunch, too.
Culture Scoop
This colorful salad takes inspiration from Thai cooking—lots of bold flavors and herbal pops—but keeps things simple for home pantries. Usually, Thai noodle salads are made with rice noodles and sometimes fish sauce, but this one is a blend everyone can enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which pasta shape is best for this?
Bowties work well catching the sauce and toppings, but penne or rotini grab just as much flavor too.
- → How do I make it more or less spicy?
Add more or less crushed red pepper to dial up or down the heat. Totally up to your tastes.
- → Should this be served cold or warm?
Let it chill before digging in. The flavors really pop after some fridge time.
- → Can I swap out the peanuts?
Sure, toasted almonds or cashews get you a different crunch if you don't want peanuts.
- → How long can I keep leftovers?
Pop any leftovers in the fridge and they'll stay tasty for three days. Stir before you eat.
- → Is there a gluten-free way to make this?
Yep! Just grab gluten-free noodles and be sure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free.