Description
Cilantro Lime Noodles is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring chewy noodles tossed in a zesty, savory cilantro lime sauce with hints of curry and chili for a touch of spice. Perfect for a quick Asian-inspired main course that can be customized with your preferred noodle type and spice level.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 5.2 oz dry noodles of choice (2 servings) – recommended knife cut noodles
Cilantro Lime Sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small shallot or red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder (optional for extra spice)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Seasonings
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, to taste
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice (juice from 1 lime)
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package instructions but slightly undercook them so they’re still chewy. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside. Quickly rinse and dry the pot for reuse.
- Mix the sauce ingredients: In a large heat-proof bowl, combine chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot or red onion, curry powder, sugar, and chili powder (if using).
- Heat the oil: Place the pot back on medium to medium-high heat and warm the olive oil for 3-4 minutes until hot with small bubbles forming. Test with a small piece of garlic which should sizzle immediately.
- Infuse the sauce: Turn off the heat and carefully pour the hot oil over the cilantro mixture in the bowl. Listen for the sizzling sound and then mix thoroughly to combine and release the flavors.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix well to create a balanced sauce.
- Toss noodles in sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more oyster sauce, chili oil, or chili sauce if desired.
- Serve hot: Enjoy the cilantro lime noodles immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh cilantro for the best vibrant flavor in the sauce.
- Slightly undercooking the noodles ensures a pleasant chewy texture after mixing with the sauce.
- Chili powder is optional; adjust to your preferred spice level.
- Vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce adds umami without using animal products.
- Use a heat-proof bowl to safely pour hot oil over the ingredients.
- For extra heat, add chili oil or chili sauce as a finishing touch.
