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Cold Noodles with Zucchini and Corn: Refreshing Summer Recipe

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Cold Noodles with Zucchini and Corn is a refreshing summer noodle bowl featuring chilled noodles, crisp zucchini, sweet corn, fresh herbs, and a savory sesame-lime dressing. Perfect for light lunches, meal prep, and warm-weather dinners.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces soba noodles or spaghetti
  • 2 medium zucchini, julienned
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Cook noodles according to package directions until tender.
  3. Drain noodles and rinse thoroughly under cold running water.
  4. Continue rinsing until completely cooled.
  5. Drain well and set aside.
  6. Julienne the zucchini and prepare the corn kernels.
  7. Slice the green onions and chop the fresh herbs.
  8. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
  9. Place the cooled noodles into a large mixing bowl.
  10. Add zucchini, corn, and green onions.
  11. Pour the dressing over the noodles.
  12. Toss thoroughly until evenly coated.
  13. Add cilantro and basil and toss gently.
  14. Refrigerate for 15 minutes if desired.
  15. Top with sesame seeds, peanuts, avocado, and red pepper flakes if using.
  16. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Rinse noodles thoroughly to stop the cooking process.
  • Fresh summer corn provides the best flavor and texture.
  • Frozen corn can be substituted if necessary.
  • Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
  • For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup.
  • Chill the noodles before serving for maximum flavor.
  • Adjust the dressing to taste before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving for the brightest flavor.
  • Excellent for meal prep and packed lunches.

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