Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, these Cilantro Lime Noodles are a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or light summer meals.

Imagine tender noodles tossed in a vibrant cilantro-lime sauce, with a hint of garlic and a touch of heat for an extra kick.

This dish is refreshing, satisfying, and ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors or just looking for a simple yet delicious meal, these noodles are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot (for boiling noodles)
Blender or food processor
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Zester or grater (for lime zest)

Ingredients Overview

Noodles: Use your favorite type—spaghetti, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Cilantro Lime Sauce: A vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
Lime: Fresh lime juice and zest provide a bright, tangy flavor.
Toppings: Optional additions like sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or chili flakes for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Noodles

12 oz spaghetti, rice noodles, or zucchini noodles
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Cilantro Lime Sauce

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
1 teaspoon lime zest
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish

Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro leaves
Sesame seeds or chopped peanuts (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Toss the Noodles

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the cilantro lime sauce until evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Divide the noodles among serving plates. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro leaves, and sesame seeds or chopped peanuts if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

20 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)

Calories: ~350
Fat: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Protein: ~8g

Expert Tips

Noodle Choice: Use rice noodles for a gluten-free option or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Extra Creaminess: Add a tablespoon of tahini or peanut butter to the sauce for a richer texture.
Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

FAQs

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use 1-2 tablespoons of dried cilantro in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but store the sauce and noodles separately. Toss them together just before serving to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy.

What if I don’t have a blender?
Finely chop the cilantro and garlic, then whisk all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl.

Storing & Reheating

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Substitutions & Variations

Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition.

Cilantro Lime Noodles

Bright, zesty, and bursting with fresh flavors, these Cilantro Lime Noodles are a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or light summer meals. Imagine tender noodles tossed in a vibrant cilantro-lime sauce, with a hint of garlic and a touch of heat for an extra kick.

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Equipment

- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Blender or food processor
- Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Zester or grater (for lime zest)

Ingredients

For the Noodles
12 oz spaghetti rice noodles, or zucchini noodles
Salt for boiling water
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves packed
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2 limes
1 teaspoon lime zest
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
For Garnish
Lime wedges
Fresh cilantro leaves
Sesame seeds or chopped peanuts optional

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, honey, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Toss the Noodles
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the cilantro lime sauce until evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Divide the noodles among serving plates. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro leaves, and sesame seeds or chopped peanuts if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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