How To Make Somen Salad (Easy Summer Noodle Salad Recipe)

Somen salad is a delicious and light Japanese fusion dish that's perfect for a hot day. The star of this salad is somen noodles, which are super thin, white wheat noodles. These noodles cook really quickly, and once they're done, they're rinsed under cold water to cool them off and make them nice and firm.

Because somen noodles have a mild flavor, they easily absorb dressings and sauces without becoming heavy. Rinsing them under cold water removes excess starch, giving the noodles a clean, smooth texture that feels refreshing and light. This chilled preparation is especially popular in summer, when lighter meals are more appealing. Somen noodles are also easy to portion and quick to prepare, making them a convenient base for simple meals or casual gatherings.

What makes somen salad special is its fresh and crunchy veggies. You’ll often find ingredients like sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced bell peppers mixed in. These veggies add a great crunch and vibrant color to the salad. If you want to mix things up, you can also add cherry tomatoes, radishes, or feel free to add any veggies you love!

For some protein, you can toss in cooked meats, tofu, or shrimp. These proteins are usually cooked separately before being added to the salad. They add a nice boost of flavor and make the salad more filling.

The dressing for somen salad is key to its great taste. It’s usually made with soy sauce, mirin, and a bit of sesame oil. This gives the salad a perfect combination with the noodles. Some recipes might also include extras like garlic, ginger, or sugar to add even more depth to the dressing.

Somen salad is best served cold, which makes it a fantastic option for hot weather. You can garnish it with sesame seeds and fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra touch of flavor and a burst of color. It’s a versatile dish that works well as a side or a light main course and goes great with other Japanese dishes like sushi or tempura.

Somen salad is all about fresh, light ingredients and a flavorful dressing. It’s an easy and tasty choice for a quick meal or a summer gathering!