Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

Ingredients:

12 oz angel hair pasta

3 Tbs sesame seeds

2 Tbs vegetable oil

1 Tbs sesame oil

1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1 Tbs sugar

1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)

1 medium red bell pepper rinsed, stemmed, seeded, and cut into thin, short slivers

3/4 cup shredded carrots

3/4 cup thinly sliced green onions

½ cup cilantro

1 cup snow peas cut diagonally in half

Salt

(If you like it spicy, add 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes.)

Directions:

1. Bring 2 1/2 to 3 quarts of water to a boil in a 5- to 6-quart pot.

2. Break noodles in half and add to the boiling water. Stir to separate, and cook until just tender. (2-3 min. Do not overcook.)

3. Drain and rinse well with cold water.

4. Rinse and dry the pot.

5. Using the same pot, stir sesame seeds in oils until golden, 2 to 3 minutes.

6. Remove from heat.

7. Add soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and cayenne, and stir until blended.

8. Add noodles and mix until well coated

9. Add bell pepper, carrots, and green onions and mix gently. Add salt to taste.

Make this salad up to 1 day ahead, cover and chill. For best flavor, bring to roomtemperature before serving.

Makes 8 to 10 small-plate servings