Meatless Monday: Shanghai Noodle Salad

Noodle dishes are so satisfying! This chilled version is perfect for Summer, allowing you to indulge while staying cool!

Ingredients:
1 lb. fresh thick Chinese wheat noodles
1/4 cup ketchup
3 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
1/4 cup chopped green onion
2 carrots (peeled and shredded)
1 small zucchini (cut into matchsticks)
1 (red or orange) bell pepper (cut into matchsticks)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions:
Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the Chinese noodles and return to a boil. Cook the noodles uncovered, stirring occassionally, until they have cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain well in a strainer in the sink. Rinse the noodles with cold water several times to chill, then drain again.

In a large salad bowl, whisk together ketchup, sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, kosher salt, and lime juice until brown sugar has dissolved. Place the noodles, green onions, carrots, zucchini, red pepper, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes into the bowl and gently toss to thoroughly mix the salad and coat with dressing.  Chill at least 2 hours before serving.

Bon appetit!

[Recipe and Image via AllRecipes.com]