Name: Cold Sesame Noodles
Yield: Serves 4 as a main dish and 8 as a first course
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter; 2 1/2 tablespoons Asian (toasted) sesame oil; 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1/4 cup water; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 2 teaspoons minced peeled fresh ginger; 2 teaspoons rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Asian chili paste* or dried hot red pepper flakes; 3/4 pound fresh* or dried* Asian egg noodles or spaghetti; 3 tablespoons minced scallion; *available at some Asian markets

This Szechwan dish is traditionally made with toasted sesame paste, but peanut butter has been substituted here with good results. One secret of this light but flavorful rendition is to dress the noodles just before serving them.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Recipe notes

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