Summer has arrived, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing bowl of cold noodles? In many Asian cultures, cold noodles are a staple during the warmer months, providing a light and revitalizing meal that’s perfect for hot days. From spicy Korean dishes to Japanese soba salads, Vietnamese spring roll bowls to Thai glass noodle salads, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be explored.
In this article, we’ll delve into 20 refreshing cold noodle recipes from around the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold or light and citrusy, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab a glass of ice-cold water, get ready to slurp up some noodles, and let’s dive in!
Korean Bibim Guksu (Spicy Cold Noodles)
Bibim Guksu, also known as Spicy Cold Noodles, is a popular Korean dish that combines the perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors with refreshing noodles. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for hot summer days or any time you crave a bold and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 200g naengmyeon (cold noodles) or soba noodles
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, chili flakes, sugar, and garlic until smooth.
3. Combine the cooked noodles with the spicy sauce and toss to coat.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Japanese Zaru Soba with Dipping Sauce
Zaru Soba is a popular Japanese dish that consists of thin, chewy soba noodles served cold and accompanied by a savory dipping sauce. This simple recipe allows you to recreate this delightful meal at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of buckwheat soba noodles
– Water for boiling
– Dipping Sauce ingredients:
+ 2 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
+ 1 tablespoon sugar
+ 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together dipping sauce ingredients until well combined.
3. Divide the cooked soba noodles among four serving bowls.
4. Serve with the dipping sauce on the side.
5. Enjoy your Zaru Soba with Dipping Sauce!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vietnamese Bun Cha Gio (Cold Noodles with Spring Rolls)
Experience the refreshing combination of cold noodles and crispy spring rolls in this popular Vietnamese dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 spring rolls ( Cha Gio)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine bean sprouts, carrots, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Slice spring rolls into bite-sized pieces and add on top of noodles.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Thai Glass Noodle Salad (Yum Woon Sen)
A refreshing and light Thai salad made with glass noodles, mixed vegetables, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of glass noodles (wheat flour or mung bean starch)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrot, diced bell pepper, chopped cilantro, scallions)
– 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled fried tofu (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, peanuts, and tofu (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including cooking time for glass noodles)
Chinese Liangpi (Cold Skin Noodles)
Liangpi is a refreshing summer dish from Northern China, made with thin noodles and a variety of toppings. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 200g liangpi noodles (or substitute with thin rice noodles)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, sliced
– 1/4 cup fermented bean paste (doubanjiang), crumbled
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cucumber, celery, pickled ginger, and fermented bean paste.
3. Add cooked noodles on top of the mixture.
4. Drizzle soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper over the noodles.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including cooking time for noodles)
Sesame Peanut Cold Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days, combining the creaminess of peanut butter with the nutty flavor of sesame oil and crunchy noodles. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy dish that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut sauce, scallions, and peanuts. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Sichuan Cold Noodles
A classic Chinese summer dish, Spicy Sichuan Cold Noodles is a refreshing and spicy treat that’s perfect for hot days. This recipe combines the numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns with the creamy coolness of peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 200g cold noodles
– 1/2 cup peanut sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Chopped scallions and peanuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and chill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili flakes.
3. Toss cold noodles with the peanut sauce mixture until well coated.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and peanuts.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Cucumber and Miso Dressing
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing Japanese-inspired salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the subtle nutty flavor of soba noodles with the cooling sweetness of cucumber and a tangy miso dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 2 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions, then rinse with cold water and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and water. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked soba noodles, sliced cucumber, and miso dressing. Toss to combine.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Udon Noodles with Tempura
Enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional Japanese cuisine with this simple recipe that combines the comfort of udon noodles with the crunch of tempura. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 200g udon noodles
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked udon noodles, cold water, tempura bits, green onions, and daikon radish.
3. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the noodles and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vietnamese Bun Thit Nuong (Grilled Pork with Cold Noodles)
This classic Vietnamese dish combines the savory flavor of grilled pork with the refreshing crunch of cold noodles, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (optional)
– Baguette, sliced in half
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled pork on a bed of noodles, topping with chopped scallions, pickled carrots and daikon (if using), and wrapping in baguette halves.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Korean Naengmyeon (Buckwheat Noodles in Icy Broth)
Naengmyeon is a refreshing summer dish that combines the chewy texture of buckwheat noodles with the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes and the cooling effect of ice-cold broth. This classic Korean recipe is perfect for hot days when you need something to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 200g buckwheat naengmyeon noodles
– 2 cups beef broth, chilled
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced pear, for garnish
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger slices, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook naengmyeon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chilled beef broth, Korean chili flakes, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the cooked naengmyeon noodles to the broth mixture and stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish with sliced pear and pickled ginger slices.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Ramen Noodles with Tamagoyaki and Vegetables
A refreshing twist on traditional ramen, this dish combines the rich flavors of Japan with the comfort of a cold noodle bowl. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cold ramen noodles
– 4-6 slices of tamagoyaki (Japanese-style rolled omelette)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions and let them cool.
2. Cut the tamagoyaki into bite-sized pieces.
3. Slice the mixed vegetables into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, tamagoyaki, and vegetables.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
6. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Thai Drunken Noodles (Cold Version)
Get ready to quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings with this refreshing Thai dish! This Cold Thai Drunken Noodle recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on the classic drunken noodle dish, served chilled for a unique and exciting taste experience.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
• 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp palm sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
• 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed vegetables, cooked chicken or tofu, fish sauce, soy sauce, palm sugar, white pepper, chilies, and garlic.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Cold Pho Noodle Salad with Herbs
A refreshing twist on traditional Vietnamese pho, this salad combines the flavors of Vietnam with a cooling and crunchy texture perfect for warm weather. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 cup mixed greens (mint, basil, cilantro)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, carrots, scallions, and peanuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce and lime juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles to the salad and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Somen Noodles with Tsuyu Broth
A refreshing summer treat, this Japanese-inspired dish combines chilled somen noodles with a savory tsuyu broth and crunchy toppings. Perfect for hot days or as a light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of somen noodles
– 2 cups of tsuyu broth (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup of grated daikon radish
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook somen noodles according to package instructions and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, tsuyu broth, green onions, sesame seeds, and daikon radish.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Cold Noodles with Kimchi and Tofu
A refreshing and spicy Korean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 200g cold noodles (such as naengmyeon)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 150g firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped kimchi, tofu cubes, gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the spicy kimchi mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cold Noodle Salad with Grilled Shrimp and Lime Dressing
This light and zesty salad is perfect for a warm day or a summer gathering. The combination of grilled shrimp, crunchy noodles, and tangy lime dressing will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Add grilled shrimp, noodles, and cilantro to the dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Rice Noodles with Lemongrass Chicken
This refreshing dish combines the comforting warmth of cooked noodles with the zesty brightness of lemongrass-infused chicken, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold rice noodles
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. Grill or sauté the chicken breast with the lemongrass mixture until cooked through.
4. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
5. Toss the cold noodles with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked noodles and chicken in a bowl. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Noodle Bowl with Avocado and Soy-Ginger Dressing
This light and satisfying dish is perfect for a hot summer day or as a quick and easy lunch. With the creamy avocado, tangy soy-ginger dressing, and crunchy noodles, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cold soba noodles
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions and chill.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chilled noodles, diced avocado, and soy-ginger dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cold Noodles with Spicy Mango Salsa
Beat the heat with this refreshing cold noodle dish, infused with the sweetness of mango and a kick of spice. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing cold noodle recipes! From spicy Korean bibim guksu to Japanese zaru soba with dipping sauce, Vietnamese bun cha gio, and more. Discover 20 delicious and easy-to-make cold noodle dishes that are perfect for hot summer days. Explore international flavors and ingredients like kimchi, sesame, and miso, or try unique combinations like peanut and cucumber. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and keep you cool.
