Cold Sesame Noodles (Well kinda)

Here's a great recipe for the hot summer months or when you are craving something that's a little on the lighter side. I should note, that this recipe can be augmented by adding in your protein of choice - for example, cold grilled chicken might be a great addition. I say "kinda" because it also has peanut butter in it.

Ingredients

• 14 Ounces dried wheat or egg lo mein noodles (your favorite thick spaghetti could also be substituted as well)

• 1/4 Cup Hoisin Sauce

• 1/4 Cup Creamy Peanut Butter (1/4 Cup Tahini could also be substituted but I prefer the peanut butter taste)

• 2 Tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (low sodium can also be used if you are looking to minimize the sodium)

• 2 Tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil

• 1 Tablespoon Honey

• 1/2 Teaspoon Piment D'Esplette (or crushed red pepper flakes)

• 1 Large Clove of Garlic (grated or VERY finely chopped)

• 2 Tablespoons Canola Oil

• Salt

• 1 Scallion Finely Sliced

• 1/4 Cup Cucumber (seeded and cut into match sticks)

• 4 Tablespoons Toasted White Sesame Seeds

  
  

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions. It's important that you cook the noodles "al dente" so they are a little firm. Drain and rinse the noodles until they are cold.

2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the Hoisin Sauce, Creamy Peanut Butter, Soy Sauce, Toasted Sesame Oil, and Honey, and Red Pepper and mix together until creamy smooth.

3. In a small skillet gently heat (over simmer) the Canola Oil and Grated Garlic. You want to infuse the garlic into the oil and keep the garlic soft. DON'T toast or burn the garlic. If that happens start over with new garlic as it will impart a burnt taste into the oil.

4. Combine the infused oil and garlic into the sauce and mix thoroughly.

5. Toss the cooked and cooled noodles with the sauce and mix until coated thoroughly.

6. Plate each serving in a pasta bowl.

7. Garnish the the noodles with the Scallions and Cucumber. Add a little extra soy sauce if you prefer.

Best Regards and BonAppetIT!!!

TheITGourmet

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