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When the warm sun of summer beckons and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dish to brighten your dining table. Enter my Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad—a delightful blend where the creamy goodness of peanut butter meets the crunch of vibrant vegetables. I first whipped this up during a busy week, desperately seeking a quick yet nourishing meal prep solution that wouldn’t skimp on flavor.

This dish effortlessly combines silky angel hair pasta with colorful edamame, crisp carrots, and lively cabbage, all tossed in a nutty dressing that sings with garlic and ginger. The best part? It’s a make-ahead star, perfect for lunchboxes or as a shared side at your next picnic. With a tangy kick of lime and optional chili heat, it’s bound to satisfy both your taste buds and your craving for something that feels anything but ordinary. Let’s dive into this culinary gem that can elevate any meal without being a hassle!

Why will you love Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—just dress it before serving to keep it fresh!
Flavor-Packed: The creamy, nutty peanut dressing combined with crisp vegetables will make you fall in love with every bite.
Versatile Options: Switch up the veggies or protein to customize the salad to your liking, ensuring it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for Hot Days: Refreshing and chilled, this dish is an ideal choice for summer picnics, BBQs, or any gatherings.
Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with proteins, vitamins, and healthy fats, this salad delivers nutrition without sacrificing taste!

Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Angel Hair Pasta – A quick-cooking base that holds the creamy dressing beautifully; can be substituted with spaghetti or rice noodles.
• Edamame Beans – Provides a boost of protein and vibrant color; substitute with chickpeas or peas if needed.
• Carrot – Adds a sweet crunch; julienne or grate for the best texture.
• Shredded Purple Cabbage – Offers a delightful crunch and visual appeal; green cabbage can be used as a substitute.
• Coriander (Cilantro) Leaves – Brings a fresh note to the dish; omit if not preferred.
• Spring Onions (Scallions) – Introduces a mild onion flavor; regular onions or chives can work as alternatives.

For the Dressing
• Peanut Butter – The star ingredient for a creamy dressing; almond or sunbutter makes a nut-free option.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance flavors; maple syrup is a suitable vegan alternative.
• Garlic – Enhances the aromatic profile of the dressing; use fresh or powdered garlic according to preference.
• Ginger – Adds warmth and depth; fresh ginger is recommended, but powdered ginger can also be utilized.
• Soy Sauce – Infuses umami and saltiness into the dressing; tamari can be used to keep it gluten-free.
• Sesame Oil – Gives a lovely nutty flavor; opt to omit if personal preference calls for it.
• Chili Oil – An optional drizzle for those who enjoy a little heat; feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder salad.

This delicious Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad is your go-to recipe for quick meals that are bursting with flavor and color!

How to Make Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad

Cook Pasta: Bring a pot of water to boil and add angel hair pasta. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prep Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooked pasta, edamame, shredded carrot, purple cabbage, coriander, and spring onions.
Dress Salad: Drizzle one-third of the peanut dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss everything together, ensuring the salad is well-coated; set aside the remaining dressing for later use.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and to serve it chilled.

Optional: Drizzle extra chili oil before serving for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad

• Dressing Timing: Add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables; this prevents your Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad from becoming soggy.

• Meal Prep Smart: When prepping for the week, store the dressing and salad separately. This retains the textures and keeps the flavors vibrant throughout the week.

• Veggie Variety: Feel free to swap in other veggies like cucumber or bell peppers for additional crunch and flavor. Experimenting with textures can elevate your Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad!

• Taste Tweaks: Don’t be shy about adjusting the sweetness or umami in the dressing. A touch more honey or soy sauce can really make a difference in flavor!

• Nut-Free Alternative: If you’re avoiding nuts, substitute the peanut butter with sunbutter or tahini to keep the creamy texture without allergens.

How to Store and Freeze Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad

Refrigerator: Store your Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the dressing separate until serving for optimal texture.

Room Temperature: For best flavor and freshness, do not leave the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially on warm days.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this pasta salad, as the textures of the ingredients may change when thawed.

Reheating: If desired, you can enjoy the salad cold or slightly at room temperature; no reheating is necessary, making it a convenient make-ahead option!

What to Serve with Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?

This delightful dish opens up a world of complementary flavors and textures to create a well-rounded meal.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a delicious protein element that pairs beautifully with the creamy salad.
Tofu Stir-Fry: A savory, stir-fried tofu dish brings a satisfying crunch and protein, perfect for a vegetarian option.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Tender-stir fried bok choy with garlic complements the salad’s flavors while adding a fresh and vibrant touch.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the nuttiness of the pasta salad and adds a pop of sweetness.
Sesame Ginger Dressing Salad: Toss greens with a sesame ginger dressing for a cohesive theme while providing a fresh, crisp contrast.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a crunchy texture that enhances your meal experience.
Watermelon Lemonade: A chilled, fruity drink to wash it down, this refreshing lemonade complements the rich flavors of the pasta salad wonderfully.
Chocolate Mochi: For a touch of sweet finale, these chewy desserts bring a delightful end to your meal with a hint of indulgence.

These pairings will surely elevate your dining experience while showcasing the delicious versatility of your Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad!

Make Ahead Options

This Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness with less fuss! You can cook the angel hair pasta and chop your vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately—this prevents the veggies from becoming soggy. The peanut dressing can also be prepared ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, combine the chilled pasta, veggies, and dressing, mixing everything well. Feel assured that the salad will remain just as vibrant and flavorful, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your pasta salad with these delicious twists that can elevate the flavors and textures!

Noodle Swap: Use spaghetti or rice noodles instead of angel hair for a different mouthfeel. Each type will change the texture while still holding the creamy sauce beautifully.
Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also create a heartier dish.
Veggie Mix: Try cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch. These vibrant additions will brighten your salad and introduce new textures to every bite.
Sweetener Sub: Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly dressing alternative. The sweetness remains delightful while accommodating dietary preferences.
Umami Punch: Incorporate miso paste in the dressing for a robust flavor boost. It deepens the umami and pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter.
Herb Change: Replace coriander with basil or mint for a unique herbal twist. These fragrant herbs can refresh the entire dish, taking it in an exciting new direction.
Heat It Up: Boost the spice level with extra chili oil or diced fresh jalapeños. Adjust to your heat tolerance; a little kick can enliven the salad’s overall taste.
Creamy Alternative: For a nut-free option, swap peanut butter with sunbutter or tahini. This keeps the creaminess while eliminating allergens without sacrificing flavor!

Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta should I use for Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?
For this salad, I recommend using angel hair pasta as it cooks quickly and pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing. If you’re looking for alternatives, spaghetti or rice noodles can work just as well.

How should I store Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?
Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best taste and texture, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain the crispness of the vegetables!

Can I freeze Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?
It’s best not to freeze this pasta salad. Freezing can alter the textures of the fresh ingredients, making the salad watery once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days.

What can I do if I have leftover dressing?
If you have leftover dressing, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it on other salads, drizzle over grilled vegetables, or even use it as a dip for fresh veggies!

Are there any dietary considerations for Cold Sesame Peanut Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian and can be easily adjusted for dietary restrictions. Use almond butter or tahini instead of peanut butter for a nut-free option, and swap honey for maple syrup to make it vegan.

What if my vegetables look limp or wilted?
If your veggies seem limp, it usually means they’re overripe. Fresh, vibrant ingredients are key to a delightful salad. Look for colorful, firm vegetables without discoloration, and consider adding a squeeze of lime just before serving to refresh them!