About This Recipe
This Asian Sesame Noodle Salad is one of those dishes that feels like it requires a lot of effort but comes together in under twenty-five minutes. Chewy soba noodles are tossed in a glossy sesame-soy dressing, then studded with bright green edamame, crisp shredded carrots, and those irresistible crispy wonton strips that give every bite a satisfying crunch.
Canadian home cooks love it because it's the kind of salad that actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for an hour or two — the flavours deepen, the noodles soak up the dressing, and suddenly you've got a lunch that holds up beautifully. It's the perfect potluck dish, meal-prep champion, and weeknight dinner that nobody complains about.
Tips for the Best Asian Sesame Noodle Salad
Cook the soba noodles just shy of al dente — they'll continue softening once they meet the dressing. Toss them with a splash of sesame oil immediately after draining to prevent sticking, then let them cool slightly before adding the dressing so it clings rather than slides off.
What to Serve With It
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature alongside grilled salmon or teriyaki tofu for a complete meal. A simple miso soup, pickled ginger, or a bowl of steamed jasmine rice rounds out the table nicely. It travels well for picnics along the Ottawa River or tailgates at Lansdowne Park.
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The noodles will absorb more dressing over time, so stir in a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving to refresh the moisture. Skip the wonton strips until right before eating so they stay crunchy.
