TikTok Chili Crisp Cucumber Noodles (Print version)

Vibrant noodles with crisp cucumber, creamy spicy dressing, and protein of choice

# What You Need:

→ Noodles

01 - 9 oz thin wheat noodles (soba, ramen, or rice noodles for gluten-free)

→ Protein

02 - 10 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or cooked chicken breast, shredded

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 large cucumbers, julienned or spiralized
04 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
05 - 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional)
06 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

→ Creamy Chili Dressing

07 - 2 tablespoons chili crisp
08 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise or vegan mayo
09 - 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
10 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
11 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
12 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
13 - 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 garlic clove, minced

→ Garnishes

15 - Fresh cilantro or mint leaves
16 - Extra chili crisp to taste
17 - Lime wedges

# How to Make:

01 - Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside to cool.
02 - If using tofu, pan-fry the cubes in a nonstick skillet with a little oil over medium heat until golden on all sides, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. If using cooked chicken, shred and set aside.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together all creamy chili dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
04 - Add the cucumbers, carrot if using, and scallions to the bowl with dressing. Toss to coat evenly.
05 - Add the cooled noodles and protein to the dressed vegetables. Toss gently until everything is well combined and coated with dressing.
06 - Divide the noodle mixture among bowls. Top with sesame seeds and garnish with cilantro or mint, extra chili crisp, and lime wedges.
07 - Serve immediately, or chill for 10 to 15 minutes for extra refreshment.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • Ready in 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours on it, which is the dream for busy days.
  • The chili crisp adds this unexpected heat that somehow makes everything feel fresher instead of heavier.
  • Endlessly customizable depending on what's in your crisper drawer or your current mood.
02 -
  • Cold noodles are non-negotiable here; warm noodles will wilt the cucumber and make everything mushy, so don't skip the ice bath step.
  • Make the dressing first and let it sit while you prep everything else so the flavors have time to get acquainted and deepen.
03 -
  • Make extra dressing and keep it in a jar in your fridge because it's perfect for drizzling over roasted vegetables or using as a sauce for grilled fish all week long.
  • Spiralize your cucumbers instead of slicing them because it creates this visual moment that makes the bowl feel more intentional, plus they maintain their snap longer.
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