Spicy Peanut Noodles with Vegetables and Cilantro is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender noodles with a rich, creamy peanut sauce and crisp, colorful vegetables. Inspired by Asian street food, this recipe balances heat, sweetness, and umami, while fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note. Quick to prepare and fully customizable, it is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a satisfying vegetarian dinner.

The combination of peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and chili creates a deeply savory sauce that clings to every strand of noodle, while vegetables provide crunch, freshness, and nutrition.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures in every bite. The creamy, nutty peanut sauce is perfectly balanced with a hint of spice, while fresh vegetables add crunch and brightness. A sprinkle of cilantro at the end brings a fresh, aromatic lift that makes the dish feel lively and satisfying. Each forkful is comforting yet refreshing, making it a meal that never feels heavy or boring.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to customize while still delivering bold, complex flavors. Whether you add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level, it’s always delicious. Quick to prepare, full of color, and packed with flavor, these spicy peanut noodles are the perfect weeknight meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Spicy Peanut Noodles with Vegetables & Cilantro are a must-try because they combine bold, satisfying flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients. The creamy peanut sauce delivers a rich, nutty taste with just the right amount of heat, while crisp vegetables add freshness and texture. Finished with fragrant cilantro, this dish is both comforting and vibrant, making every bite exciting and flavorful.

This recipe also stands out for its versatility and ease. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a quick lunch, and can be easily customized with different vegetables, proteins, or spice levels. Flavorful, colorful, and effortless, these noodles offer a restaurant-quality experience at home that’s sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Ingredients

For the Noodles and Vegetables

• 250 g rice noodles or spaghetti
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Peanut Sauce

• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup warm water (to thin the sauce as needed)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Lime wedges

Cooking Directions

Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Sauté the vegetables until tender-crisp. Whisk together the peanut sauce ingredients until smooth. Combine noodles, vegetables, and sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Finish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add bell pepper, carrot, snap peas, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and warm water until smooth. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over and toss until everything is evenly coated.
6. Remove from heat and stir in sliced green onions.
7. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and lime wedges.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve spicy peanut noodles warm or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled tofu, shrimp, or chicken for added protein. A side of pickled vegetables or a light Asian-style salad complements the dish beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated ginger and garlic for maximum flavor.
• Toast sesame seeds lightly for extra aroma.
• Adjust spiciness by adding more or less sriracha.
• Toss noodles immediately after adding sauce to prevent clumping.

Variations in Detail

Vegan Version: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave and use vegan noodles.
Protein Boost: Add sautéed tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or shredded chicken.
Crunchy Peanut Noodles: Top with crushed peanuts for extra texture.
Green Veggie Focus: Include broccoli, zucchini, or baby spinach.
Cold Noodle Salad: Chill the noodles and serve as a refreshing summer salad.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the peanut sauce and noodles may separate upon thawing. Reheat gently and stir well if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prep the vegetables and sauce in advance. Toss noodles and sauce just before serving for best texture.

What noodles work best?
Rice noodles are traditional, but spaghetti, udon, or soba noodles work well too.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, reduce or increase sriracha or chili sauce according to your preference.

Can I use peanut butter alternatives?
Almond or cashew butter can be used for a different nutty flavor.

Conclusion

Spicy Peanut Noodles with Vegetables and Cilantro are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that balances creamy, nutty sauce with fresh, crisp vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to become a favorite for anyone who loves vibrant, Asian-inspired noodle dishes.