Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame

A light, refreshing Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame is the perfect healthy summer lunch or dinner, packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies. Tossed in a flavorful peanut dressing, this easy recipe is ideal for meal prep lunches or outdoor picnics.

Gluten Free, Egg Free, Soy Free options

When the summer heat hits, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen… ya feel me?! So enter salads that don’t suck…

This Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame is a no-fuss, nutrient-packed meal that’s served chilled and comes together in under 30 minutes. Made with hearty buckwheat soba noodles, protein-rich edamame, crunchy vegetables, and a savory peanut dressing, it’s a plant-based dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s also easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge, making it a go-to for busy weekdays or last-minute meals.

This Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame is…

• Easy to prep for lunches or dinner for the week
• Packed with plant-based protein
• Rich in filling fiber
• Super satisfying
• Elevated for entertaining, but easy enough for everyday (my favorite kinda meals!)

Ingredients Used to Make This Recipe

You only need a base of 7 ingredients, including:

1. Soba noodles are a Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour. Soba adds nutty flavor and a tender, chewy texture while offering fiber and plant-based protein.
2. Napa cabbage is mild-tasting and crisp, to add bulk and crunch without overpowering other flavors.
3. Shredded carrots offer vibrant color, crunch, and a naturally sweet flavor that balances the savory dressing.
4. Shelled edamame is a great source of protein and fiber, making this salad more filling and satisfying.
5. Green onions (AKA scallions) provide a fresh, mild onion flavor that adds brightness to the salad.
6. Cilantro (optional) offers a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the lime and peanut flavors in the dressing. If you’re not a fan, simply skip it!
7. Peaches or nectarines are a juicy, sweet contrast to the savory and tangy components. A perfect summer touch!
8. Sesame seeds (optional) add a nutty finishing touch for texture and visual appeal.

Plus, you’ll need just 5 additional ingredients for the dressing, including:

1. Peanut butter is the creamy and rich base of the dressing. It adds a nutty depth of flavor. Feel free to use a nut free spread, as needed.
2. Soy sauce or tamari brings umami and saltiness. Tamari keeps it gluten-free.
3. Lime juice adds brightness and a hint of acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
4. Olive oil helps emulsify the dressing and adds healthy fats. Use any mild oil in substitutions.
5. Maple syrup contributes a touch of sweetness rounds out the flavors and balances the tanginess of the lime. You can also use honey.

Kitchen Tools Needed to Make Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame

• 12 quart pasta pot
• Strainer or colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Jar or small bowl for whisking dressing
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Edamame

1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the salad base by combining napa cabbage, shredded carrots, cooked edamame, green onions, cilantro, and sliced peaches in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the peanut dressing by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce or tamari, lime juice, olive oil, and maple syrup until smooth. Adjust to taste, adding more lime or maple syrup if needed.
4. Toss the salad with the dressing until everything is well coated.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional cilantro if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs About This Recipe

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Store the salad and dressing separately for the best texture. Toss together just before serving. It’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be! Use 100% buckwheat soba noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce to make it completely gluten-free.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor or allergy-friendly option.

Can I omit the peaches?

Absolutely. While the peaches add a sweet, seasonal twist, this salad is still delicious without them or with another fruit like mango or orange segments.

What protein can I add to make it heartier?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh would all be great additions if you want to boost the protein even more.

Meal Prep This Recipe…

If you want to make parts of this recipe in advance, here are some tips:

1. Cook the buckwheat soba noodles in advance.
2. Prep the dressing and store in a container or jar with an airtight lid.
3. Chop the salad ingredients. Place a paper towel on the bottom of a large mixing bowl with a lid, then add the salad ingredients, then add another paper towel on top. This will prevent excess moisture from accumulating. Cover with an airtight lid and store in the fridge until you’re ready to toss with the dressing and enjoy.

Print

Don’t Forget to PIN this Cold Soba Noodle Recipe…

xx