Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles are a tasty, easy delight perfect for any night. With warm noodles and a rich peanut sauce, this dish packs flavor without the fuss. Whether you want to adjust the spice or add your favorite veggies, you’ll find joy in every bite. Join me as we dive into this simple recipe that you’ll love making!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles, gather these simple ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
– 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated (optional)
– 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can make this dish your own. Here are some ideas:
– Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein.
– Mix in carrots or broccoli for extra veggies.
– Swap honey for agave syrup for a vegan option.
– Use lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a fresh twist.
Dietary Substitutions
This recipe is great for many diets. Here are some swaps:
– Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free meal.
– Substitute maple syrup for honey to keep it vegan.
– Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter if needed.
– Omit sriracha for a milder dish or use a milder sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
First, grab 8 ounces of spaghetti or rice noodles. Boil a pot of water. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once they are done, drain the noodles and set them aside. It’s best to keep them warm while you prepare the rest.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce
Next, let’s make the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, add 1/3 cup of creamy peanut butter. Then, mix in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. Sweeten with 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup. For some heat, include 1 tablespoon of sriracha. Finally, add 1 clove of minced garlic and a 1-inch piece of grated ginger if you like. Whisk everything until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, heat a drizzle of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 cup of thinly sliced bell peppers and 1 cup of trimmed snap peas. Stir-fry these for about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp. The colors will brighten your dish!
Combining Ingredients
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the warm noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the top. Toss everything gently to coat the noodles and veggies in the sauce. Heat for an extra 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Once done, remove from heat, and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped green onions and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds on top for that perfect finish.
Tips & Tricks
How to Adjust Spice Levels
To change the spice in your noodles, tweak the sriracha. Start with one tablespoon. If you like it hotter, add more little by little. You can also balance heat with honey or maple syrup. This makes the dish sweet and spicy. If the spice is too much, serve with lime wedges. The lime juice helps cool the heat.
Best Practices for Cooking Noodles
When cooking your noodles, follow the package instructions. This helps you get them just right. Use a large pot with plenty of water. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Stir the noodles occasionally to keep them from sticking. Drain them well but keep a little water to help with the sauce later.
Garnishing Ideas for Presentation
Garnishing makes your dish pop! Use chopped green onions for color and freshness. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. For a pop of color, add a few slices of lime. Drizzle some extra sriracha on top if you want more heat. Serve in individual bowls for a pretty look.

Variations
Alternative Proteins to Add
You can add many proteins to these spicy peanut butter noodles. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work great. Just cook your protein separately and mix it in at the end. For chicken, grill or sauté until cooked. For shrimp, cook until they turn pink. For tofu, cube and fry until golden. These proteins enhance the flavors and make the dish heartier.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
This recipe is easy to make vegetarian or vegan. Simply use tofu or tempeh instead of meat. Choose maple syrup over honey for a vegan option. You can also add edamame for extra protein. This keeps the meal light while providing all essential nutrients.
Exploring Different Vegetables
Get creative with your veggie choices! You can use zucchini, carrots, or broccoli. Just slice them thinly for quick cooking. Add them to the skillet with bell peppers and snap peas. This brings more colors and flavors to your plate. You can also try spinach or kale for a leafy twist. Mixing different vegetables makes the dish fun and unique.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
I love making extra Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles. After serving, let them cool. Place leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for about three to four days.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, heat them gently. Use a skillet on low heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of extra sesame oil. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking. Stir often until everything is warm.
Freezing the Dish
You can freeze Spicy Peanut Butter Noodles if you want to save some for later. Place cooled noodles in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to eat them again, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat.
FAQs
What are the best noodles for this recipe?
I love using spaghetti or rice noodles for this dish. Spaghetti gives a nice chew, while rice noodles are light and gluten-free. Both work great in soaking up the spicy peanut sauce. You can pick the type you like best!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Use rice noodles and tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, making them a perfect choice. Just check that your peanut butter is also gluten-free.
How can I make it less spicy?
To tone down the heat, reduce the sriracha. Start with one teaspoon and taste as you go. You can also add more peanut butter or honey to balance the spice. Adding extra veggies can help too!
Is it possible to use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a fun texture to the dish. It gives a nice contrast to the smooth sauce. Just remember that it may change the sauce’s consistency a bit, but it’s still delicious!
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the sauce and heat gently. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
This post covered a tasty recipe with many options to customize it. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. I shared ways to adjust spice and how to store your dish. Remember, you can vary proteins and vegetables to fit your taste. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with this dish! Each bite can be different and fun. Keep it simple, and happy cooking!


