Easy 5-Ingredient Asian Noodle Bowls Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 cup frozen shelled edamame
• 1/2 cup sesame or peanut flavored bottled Asian sauce, such as P.F. Chang's Sesame Sauce or House of Tsang Bangkok Peanut Sauce
• 1 (13 ounce) Asian salad kit, such as Taylor Farms Asian Chopped Salad Kit
• 1 cup chopped cucumber

Directions

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add spaghetti and salt, and cook until the spaghetti is tender yet firm, about 12 minutes.
3. Two minutes before the pasta is done, add the frozen edamame and stir occasionally.
4. Drain the pasta and edamame, then return them to the pot set over low heat.
5. Stir in your choice of Asian sauce, and heat until just warmed through, about 1 minute.
6. Divide the noodle mixture evenly among 4 shallow bowls.
7. Top with the contents from the salad kit and the chopped cucumber.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 608
• Total Fat: 40g (51% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (44% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 98mg (33% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 2672mg (116% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 44g (16% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (32% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 21g (42% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 95mg (106% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 243mg (19% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (25% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 929mg (20% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The amounts listed are based on available data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult with your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

The Story Behind Easy 5-Ingredient Asian Noodle Bowls

Asian noodle bowls have a rich history that spans several cultures across East and Southeast Asia. The concept of combining noodles with fresh vegetables and a flavorful sauce originated in China over a thousand years ago, evolving from simple wheat or rice noodle dishes. As trade routes expanded, noodle dishes traveled through Japan, Korea, and Thailand, each culture adding unique ingredients and techniques. The version presented in this recipe reflects a modern, simplified take on traditional Asian noodle bowls, emphasizing convenience without compromising on the bold flavors that define the cuisine.

Regional Variations

Different regions in Asia have developed distinct noodle bowl styles. In Japan, soba or udon noodles are often served warm or chilled with sesame or soy-based sauces. Korean noodle bowls frequently include kimchi and gochujang for a spicy kick. Thai noodle bowls, in contrast, balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, often incorporating peanut sauce or lime juice. This particular recipe leans toward a pan-Asian style, drawing inspiration from the creamy, nutty sauces typical of Thai cuisine while maintaining the simplicity and fresh vegetable components common in Japanese and Chinese noodle dishes.

What Sets It Apart From Similar Dishes

Unlike more complex recipes that require multiple sauces, marinades, or lengthy cooking processes, this noodle bowl relies on just five ingredients. The use of a pre-made Asian salad kit and bottled sesame or peanut sauce makes it uniquely accessible for home cooks, while still delivering authentic flavors. Unlike ramen or pho, which are typically soup-based, this dish is served dry with the sauce coating the noodles, emphasizing a balance of textures from the crunchy salad and tender noodles. The simplicity and speed distinguish it from traditional restaurant-style noodle bowls.

Typical Serving Occasions

Easy 5-Ingredient Asian Noodle Bowls are perfect for casual dinners, quick lunches, or weeknight meals when time is limited. They are often served in shallow bowls, making them ideal for communal dining or family-style meals. While they can be found in some modern Asian fusion restaurants, this recipe is designed for home preparation, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to the kitchen without complicated steps. They pair well with light sides such as edamame, spring rolls, or miso soup.

Interesting Facts

Noodle bowls are not only delicious but carry cultural significance in many Asian countries. In China, noodles symbolize longevity and prosperity, making them a staple at celebrations like Lunar New Year. The choice of ingredients in this recipe, such as edamame and cucumbers, reflects contemporary health-conscious trends in global cuisine. Another fun fact: pre-packaged salad kits and bottled sauces have dramatically changed how home cooks engage with traditional Asian flavors, making it easier than ever to enjoy authentic-tasting meals with minimal preparation. Finally, this recipe showcases the adaptability of noodle bowlsthey can be served hot or cold, customized with proteins, and adjusted to suit diverse dietary preferences, making them a versatile favorite worldwide.

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