Peanut Noodles with Sesame Halloumi
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rice noodles or lo mein noodles
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tbsp chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2–4 tbsp warm water, as needed
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and enough warm water to make a smooth, pourable sauce.
- Pat the halloumi dry and sprinkle both sides with the sesame seeds, pressing gently so they adhere.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the halloumi for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the peanut sauce until evenly coated.
- Fold in the shredded carrots, bell pepper, and green onions.
- Divide the noodles among serving bowls and top with the crispy sesame halloumi.
- Garnish with cilantro and chopped peanuts, if desired, and serve immediately.