This shrimp noodle salad with peanut dressing is a fresh, vibrant dish inspired by Southeast Asian flavors. It combines tender, juicy shrimp with soft rice noodles and a colorful mix of crisp vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers, all tossed together with fragrant herbs for brightness and freshness.
The real star of this recipe is the creamy peanut dressing. Made with peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, it creates a rich, nutty, and slightly tangy sauce that coats every bite perfectly. It balances freshness with indulgence, making the salad both satisfying and light at the same time.
This dish is perfect for warm weather, quick lunches, or easy weeknight dinners. It comes together in under 30 minutes and can be served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep or even last minute hosting. You can also customize it easily by adding extra vegetables, swapping proteins, or adjusting the spice level.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy noodle bowl, a refreshing summer salad, or a quick high-protein meal, this shrimp noodle salad delivers bold flavor, great texture, and effortless freshness in every bite.
Shrimp Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
Description
A refreshing shrimp noodle salad tossed with crisp vegetables and a creamy peanut dressing. Easy, healthy, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
🍤 Shrimp
🍜 Noodle Salad Base
🥜 Creamy Peanut Dressing
Instructions
-
Cook the noodles
Cook noodles according to package instructions.
Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
-
Cook the shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, salt, pepper, chili flakes and garlic powder.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
-
Make peanut dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and warm water until smooth and creamy.
Adjust thickness with more water if needed.
-
Assemble the salad
- In a large bowl, combine noodles, cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, spring onions, and cilantro.
- Top with cooked shrimp, drizzle with peanut dressing, and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and extra cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Note
💡 Tips & Variations
- Swap shrimp for chicken
- Add edamame for extra protein
- Use soba noodles for a nuttier/deeper flavor
- Make dressing ahead for quick meal prep
