Miso Noodle Salad Recipe

Cook rice noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add rice noodles, and soak according to package instructions (typically 3–5 minutes) until just tender. Stir gently to separate. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Toss with 1 teaspoon neutral oil to prevent sticking and set aside to cool.

Prepare vegetables

While noodles soak, julienne the carrots, thinly slice the red onion, slice the roasted red peppers into strips, roughly chop the cilantro, and roughly chop the peanuts. Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl and keep other prepared vegetables nearby.

In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the miso paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, neutral oil, soy sauce (or tamari), honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, minced ginger, and minced garlic until smooth.

Gradually whisk in warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency (about 2 tablespoons). Taste and adjust: add more lime or vinegar for acidity, more honey for sweetness, or a pinch more salt if needed. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes if using.

Add the cooled rice noodles, julienned carrots, roasted red pepper strips, and thinly sliced red onion to the bowl with the mixed greens. Toss gently to combine so the greens are evenly distributed with noodles and vegetables.

Pour about two-thirds of the miso vinaigrette over the salad (reserve remaining dressing to serve on the side). Using tongs or two large spoons, toss gently but thoroughly to coat the noodles and greens with dressing. If the salad seems dry, add remaining dressing a little at a time until desired coating is reached.

Sprinkle the chopped peanuts and chopped cilantro over the top. Garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled. If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss with the salad within 30 minutes of serving to prevent the greens from wilting and the noodles from soaking up too much dressing.