Cilantro Lime Noodles Recipe
If you’re looking to bring a vibrant new twist to your noodle game, Cilantro Lime Noodles are here to steal the show. This sensational dish weaves together the zesty tang of fresh lime, the herbaceous punch of cilantro, and a rich tapestry of savory Asian flavors in every bite. As someone who loves sharing those unexpected “wow” moments at the dinner table, I can honestly say this is one of those recipes that feels bold yet comforting, and irresistibly craveable. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, showing off to friends, or just jazzing up your weeknight routine, Cilantro Lime Noodles will make your kitchen smell amazing and your tastebuds dance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I love how these ingredients come together with effortless synergy, each one chosen for maximum flavor and color. Every addition to our Cilantro Lime Noodles brings something special, from the aromatic alliums to the spicy and citrusy accents. Let’s get to know the cast of characters!
- Dry noodles of choice (5.2 oz, about 2 servings): I prefer knife cut noodles for their chewy texture, but any noodle will soak up these flavors beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, chopped): The star ingredient infuses the dish with bright, herbaceous notes—it’s essential for that signature freshness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Packs aromatic depth and a gentle heat that ties everything together.
- Shallot or red onion (1/2 small): Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch for textural variety.
- Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the tartness of the lime and highlights the savory elements in the sauce.
- Curry powder (1 tsp): Provides gentle warmth and complexity to the overall dish.
- Chilli powder (1/2 tbsp, optional): If you want your Cilantro Lime Noodles to have a little kick, this will do the trick!
- Oil (1/4 cup, I used olive oil): For blooming the aromatics—this step unlocks so much flavor.
- Vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce (1.5 to 2 tbsp): Delivers rich umami and makes the sauce wonderfully silky.
- Dark soy sauce (1 tbsp): Adds mellow saltiness and that beautiful depth of color.
- Lime juice (2 tbsp, juice of 1 lime): Brings zippy brightness and ties everything together with that signature tang.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Noodles
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Noodles
Start by boiling your noodles just until they’re al dente—think “just chewable” rather than fully soft. I always recommend a slight undercook because these noodles will soak up extra flavor when mixed with the sauce. Once they’re just about done, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, drain well, and set aside. You’ll thank yourself later for taking this step!
Step 2: Prep the Aromatic Bowl
In a large, heatproof bowl, gather your chopped cilantro, minced garlic, shallot (or red onion), curry powder, sugar, and—if you’re feeling spice-happy—the chilli powder. This bowl is about to become an explosion of aroma and flavor, so have it ready before you hit the next step!
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour your oil into the now-empty, dry pot you used to cook the noodles. Warm it over medium to medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you drop in a sliver of garlic and it sizzles right away. This hot oil will take the flavor of your aromatics to the next level.
Step 4: Sizzle and Infuse
Turn off the heat and immediately pour the hot oil over your aromatic mix. Listen and savor that satisfying sizzle—it means flavor infusion is happening right before your eyes! Give everything a good mix so the heat brings out the best in those fresh herbs and seasonings.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
To your now fragrant bowl, add the vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and fresh lime juice. Stir well, making sure all those flavors dance together and create a glossy, irresistible sauce that’s just waiting to cling to every strand.
Step 6: Toss the Noodles
Add your cooled, drained noodles right into the bowl. Toss everything together so each noodle gets a generous coating of sauce and those bits of cilantro. Taste, and adjust the seasoning by adding more mushroom oyster sauce if you desire a deeper umami punch.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
If you love a touch of chili oil or your favorite chili sauce, now’s the perfect moment to swirl it in. Serve your Cilantro Lime Noodles hot and get ready for a riot of flavors!
How to Serve Cilantro Lime Noodles
Garnishes
Sprinkle your finished Cilantro Lime Noodles with extra fresh cilantro leaves, thinly sliced scallions, a handful of toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of additional lime. These toppings not only make your bowl look beautiful, but every bite bursts with even more freshness and crunch.
Side Dishes
These noodles pair delightfully with roasted or grilled vegetables, a crisp cucumber salad, or some pan-seared tofu. If you’re feeding a crowd, consider offering dumplings or spring rolls on the side for extra variety and fun dipping action.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Cilantro Lime Noodles in little lettuce cups for an appetizer, or pile them high in colorful bowls for a picnic or potluck. You can even tuck leftovers into a wrap with crunchy veggies for tomorrow’s lunch—the bright flavors truly shine in any format.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cool, transfer your Cilantro Lime Noodles to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, and the flavors might even become more robust given a little time to mingle.
Freezing
For best texture, I don’t recommend freezing Cilantro Lime Noodles, as the herbs and noodles can lose their vibrancy and become mushy. They’re at their absolute best when enjoyed fresh or soon after making.
Reheating
Reheat leftover noodles on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or extra lime juice to loosen the sauce. Stir well and refresh with a little extra chopped cilantro before serving to wake up those garden-fresh flavors.
FAQs
What type of noodle works best for Cilantro Lime Noodles?
Knife cut noodles are my favorite for their chewy bite, but rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti all do the trick. Go with what you love or already have in your pantry!
Is there a substitute for vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce?
You can use regular oyster sauce if you’re not vegetarian, or a combination of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for a similar sweet-savory effect. Mushroom sauce is lovely for depth, but this dish is flexible.
Can I make these noodles gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just pick your favorite gluten-free noodles (like rice noodles) and use a gluten-free soy sauce. The bold flavors of Cilantro Lime Noodles will shine through no matter the noodle base.
How spicy are Cilantro Lime Noodles?
The spice level is entirely up to you! Add or skip the chili powder and chili oil to reach your perfect heat—leave it out for a mellow dish or crank it up if you’re a heat seeker.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the cilantro, shallots, and garlic and mix the sauce ingredients a few hours ahead. Cook the noodles and store them separately, then combine everything just before serving for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to liven up dinnertime, Cilantro Lime Noodles offer the perfect balance of zesty, savory, and herbal goodness. This recipe is easy, adaptable, and destined to become a repeat favorite—give it a whirl and see your kitchen transformed into a flavor fiesta!
Print
Cilantro Lime Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cilantro Lime Noodles are a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of cilantro with the zing of lime. The savory sauce coats the noodles perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
Dry Noodles:
- 5.2 oz dry noodles of choice (I used knife-cut noodles)
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small shallot or red onion
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup oil (olive oil)
- 1.5 to 2 tbsp vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice (juice from 1 lime)
Instructions
- Noodles: Prepare noodles until slightly undercooked. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
- Sauce Prep: In a heatproof bowl, combine cilantro, garlic, shallot, curry powder, sugar, and chili powder.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil in a pot until hot.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour hot oil over the cilantro mixture. Mix well.
- Add Sauces: Mix in mushroom oyster sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice.
- Coat Noodles: Add cooked noodles to the sauce. Mix well.
- Final Touch: Add chili oil if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice levels by adding more chili powder or chili oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cilantro Lime Noodles, Asian noodles, vegetarian noodles, cilantro lime recipe
