Japanese Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing

Ingredients

• 8 oz soba noodles
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup carrot, julienned
• 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup scallions, chopped

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

1. 01
   Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 6-8 minutes.
2. 02
   Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
3. 03
   In a large bowl, combine the julienned cucumber, carrot, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped scallions.
4. 04
   In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger until well combined.
5. 05
   Add the cooled soba noodles to the bowl with the vegetables and pour the sesame dressing over the top.
6. 06
   Toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
7. 07
   Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.