Get ready to fall in love with the delicious world of soba noodles! These traditional Japanese buckwheat noodles are a staple in many Asian cuisines, and for good reason. Not only do they have a nutty flavor and chewy texture that’s just begging to be paired with a variety of ingredients, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a refreshing snack, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 mouthwatering soba noodle recipes. From classic stir-fries to spicy salads, and from comforting soups to flavorful bowls, there’s something on this list for every occasion.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of soba noodles, exploring different flavors, textures, and combinations that will inspire your own cooking adventures. So grab a fork, get ready to slurp up some fun, and let’s dive into the delicious world of soba noodles!
Cold Soba Noodles with Sesame Dipping Sauce
A refreshing summer treat that combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the chewy texture of soba noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cold soba noodles
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions, then rinse with cold water and drain well.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the dipping sauce over the cooled soba noodles and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on cooking time for soba noodles)
Spicy Peanut Soba Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with a spicy and creamy peanut dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked soba noodles, bell peppers, and cilantro.
4. Pour the peanut dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Soba Noodle Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with a variety of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add broccoli and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return cooked soba noodles to the wok. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zaru Soba with Tempura
Zaru soba, a classic Japanese dish, pairs perfectly with crispy tempura bits for a delightful meal. This recipe combines the simplicity of boiled soba noodles with the savory flavors of tempura and dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 200g zaru soba noodles
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Your choice of tempura bits (e.g., shrimp, carrots, green beans)
– Dipping sauce ingredients: soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar
Instructions:
1. Boil soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour and soda water to create tempura batter.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C). Fry tempura bits until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Prepare dipping sauce by whisking together soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar.
5. Serve boiled soba noodles with tempura bits and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Miso-Glazed Eggplant Soba Noodles
Elevate your soba noodle dish with the rich flavors of miso and eggplant. This recipe combines the sweetness of grilled eggplant with the savory notes of white miso paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 8 ounces soba noodles
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Brush the eggplant slices with the miso glaze and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. To assemble, place cooked noodles on a plate, top with grilled eggplant slices, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Soba Noodle Soup with Mushrooms and Tofu
This Soba Noodle Soup with Mushrooms and Tofu is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the earthy taste of mushrooms and the creaminess of tofu. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the tofu and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and add the cooked soba noodles.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and grated ginger. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Inspired Soba Noodles with Coconut Curry
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand in this quick and easy recipe that combines the comforting warmth of soba noodles with the creamy richness of coconut curry. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry paste, and ginger. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked soba noodles with the curry sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soba Noodles with Grilled Chicken and Ginger Scallion Sauce
This Japanese-inspired dish combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the smokiness of grilled chicken, all tied together by a creamy and aromatic ginger scallion sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Blend until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Serve over soba noodles with Ginger Scallion Sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Cucumber and Avocado
Beat the heat with this simple and satisfying cold noodle dish, perfect for a light and revitalizing lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the creamy texture of avocado and the crunch of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, cucumber slices, and diced avocado.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame and Carrot
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the sweetness of carrots and the crunch of edamame. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 cup cooked edamame
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked edamame, grated carrots, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
3. Add the cooked soba noodles to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Soba Noodles with Crispy Garlic
A flavorful and textured Japanese-inspired dish that combines the nutty goodness of sesame oil, crispy garlic, and chewy soba noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup crispy garlic (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add crispy garlic to the pan and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked soba noodles, sesame-garlic mixture, and soy sauce. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make crispy garlic, slice 1/2 cup of garlic thinly and fry in 1 inch of oil at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Soba Noodles with Teriyaki Salmon
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the nutty taste of soba noodles with the rich flavor of teriyaki salmon. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Combine cooked soba noodles and teriyaki sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve salmon on top of noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Soba Noodle Stir-Fry
Transform your meal with the bold flavors of kimchi and the satisfying chew of soba noodles. This spicy stir-fry is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add kimchi and red pepper flakes (if using); stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked soba noodles to the skillet; stir-fry until well combined with kimchi mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soba Noodles with Spicy Miso Broth
Warm up with this comforting Japanese-inspired dish that combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with a spicy kick from miso broth. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cups water or dashi broth (optional)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and additional scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine water or dashi broth, miso paste, gochujang, ginger, and garlic powder. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked soba noodles to the broth and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds (if using), and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Yuzu and Shiso
Escape the heat with this light and revitalizing Japanese-inspired noodle dish, perfect for a quick summer meal or snack. The combination of chewy soba noodles, tangy yuzu dressing, and fragrant shiso leaves will transport your taste buds to the tranquil gardens of Japan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cold soba noodles
– 1/2 cup yuzu juice (or substitute with a mix of lemon and lime juice)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced shiso leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yuzu juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled soba noodles, yuzu dressing, and sliced shiso leaves. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Soba Noodle Bowl with Poached Egg and Greens
Wholesome and satisfying, this Soba noodle bowl is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy the simplicity of cooking soba noodles to pair with a perfectly poached egg and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and/or kale)
– Optional: chopped scallions, grated ginger, and/or sliced almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions or simmer in water/broth with sesame oil and salt until al dente.
2. Poach egg by cracking it into a pot of simmering water and cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
3. Divide cooked noodles among bowls. Top with poached egg, mixed greens, and any desired garnishes.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Soba Noodles with Lemongrass and Lime
Experience the harmonious balance of Asian flavors with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring tender soba noodles infused with the bright, citrusy notes of lemongrass and lime.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine lemongrass, lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cooked soba noodles to the skillet and toss until well coated with the lemongrass-lime mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soba Noodle Salad with Grilled Shrimp and Mango
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with succulent grilled shrimp, sweet mango, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mango, cilantro, and cooked soba noodles.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Slice grilled shrimp into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Soba noodles, a staple in Japanese cuisine, can be used to create a wide variety of dishes. From salads to soups, this article presents 18 delicious soba noodle recipes perfect for every occasion. Discover cold soba noodles with sesame dipping sauce, spicy peanut soba noodle salad, and many more innovative combinations featuring ingredients like grilled chicken, coconut curry, and teriyaki salmon. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your culinary creativity.