Peanut Noodles Recipe – Garlic Ginger Spinach & Sesame Delight

Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Peanut Noodles Recipe – Garlic Ginger Spinach & Sesame Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. These Peanut Noodles are exactly that. I first stumbled upon a version of this when I was craving something comforting and Asian-inspired, and it’s been a weeknight staple ever since. The best part? It’s totally customizable to your taste! Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These peanut noodles are seriously addictive. They’re packed with flavor from the garlic, ginger, and chili garlic sauce, and the creamy peanut sauce coats the noodles perfectly. Plus, they come together in under 15 minutes – perfect for busy evenings! It’s a delightful mix of textures too, with the soft noodles, crunchy peanuts, and slightly wilted spinach.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious noodles:

• 200g noodles (about 7oz)
• ¼ cup creamy unsweetened peanut butter
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp ginger
• ¼ cup water
• 1 cup spinach
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 3 tbsp roasted peanuts

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can really elevate this dish.

Coconut Aminos: A Savory & Gluten-Free Alternative

Coconut aminos are my go-to soy sauce substitute. They’re a little sweeter and less salty, but add a lovely umami flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use soy sauce, but reduce the amount slightly.

Noodle Choice: Exploring Different Asian Noodle Varieties

I love using wheat noodles for this, but feel free to experiment! Rice noodles, udon, or even soba noodles all work beautifully. Each will give a slightly different texture, so find your favorite.

Sesame Oil: The Importance of Toasted Sesame Oil

Don’t skip the toasted sesame oil! It adds a huge amount of flavor. Regular sesame oil just won’t have the same depth.

Chili Garlic Sauce: Adjusting the Spice Level

Chili garlic sauce is where you control the heat. Start with 1 tsp and add more to taste. I like a little kick, but my kids prefer it milder.

Peanut Butter: Creamy vs. Crunchy – Which to Use?

I usually use creamy peanut butter for a super smooth sauce, but a little crunch can be nice too! It’s totally up to you. Just make sure it’s unsweetened.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some noodles!

1. First, cook your noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. Don’t overcook them – we want them slightly al dente.
2. While the noodles are cooking, let’s make the peanut sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, and water. Add a little more water if you want a thinner sauce.
3. Now, heat the sesame oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Toss in the spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until it’s wilted. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the wok, followed by the peanut sauce. Gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated. Try not to break the noodles while tossing.
6. Finally, garnish with toasted sesame seeds, roasted peanuts, and a drizzle of chili oil (if you like it spicy!). Serve immediately, or enjoy cold.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the wok: Work in batches if necessary to ensure the noodles cook evenly.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the sauce to your liking. More chili garlic sauce for heat, more rice vinegar for tang, more water for a thinner sauce.
• Prep your ingredients: Having everything chopped and measured out before you start makes the cooking process so much smoother.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Peanut Noodles

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your chili garlic sauce to ensure it doesn’t contain any fish sauce.

Gluten-Free Peanut Noodles

Use gluten-free noodles (rice noodles are a great option) and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of coconut aminos.

Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Fiery

As mentioned, adjust the chili garlic sauce to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick.

Quick Weeknight Version

Skip the spinach if you’re really short on time. The noodles are still delicious without it!

Cold Peanut Noodle Salad Adaptation

This is amazing cold! Just add a squeeze of lime juice before serving for extra brightness. My friend Sarah loves adding shredded carrots and cucumber when she makes it as a salad.

Serving Suggestions

These noodles are great on their own, but you can also serve them with:

• Grilled chicken or tofu
• Steamed broccoli
• A side of kimchi

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of water when reheating.

FAQs

What type of noodles work best in this recipe?

Wheat noodles, rice noodles, udon, or soba noodles all work well. It really comes down to personal preference!

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

If you find the sauce too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of rice vinegar.

Is it possible to add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even a fried egg would be delicious additions.

What’s a good substitute for coconut aminos?

Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) can be used, but reduce the amount slightly as they are saltier.