These chilled noodles are a peanut-free spin on the classic sesame noodles from your favorite takeout spot. Top them with leftover sliced steak, serve alongside grilled chicken skewers or enjoy as a light vegetarian lunch. The crunchy salad of arugula, cilantro and julienned green apples adds extra nutrition.

Active time: 35 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

Chilled Cashew Noodles With Arugula and Apples

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (65g) unsalted cashews
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tbsp brown sugar
•  4 tsp Indonesian chili sauce (Sambal Oelek), divided
• 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 6 oz. (170g) whole-wheat spaghetti
• 1/4 cup (64g) unsalted creamy cashew butter
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated
• 3 cups (60g) baby arugula, packed
• 1/2 Granny Smith apple, cored and julienned
• 1/2 cup (8g) cilantro

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, toss the cashews with the sesame seeds, olive oil, brown sugar, and 2 tsp of the Indonesian chili sauce. Season with 1/4 tsp salt. Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake, tossing once, until the cashews are crisp and golden brown, about 12 minutes. Let cool.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the whole-wheat spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain well, rinse under cold water, and transfer to a large bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the cashew butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, the remaining 2 tsp Indonesian chili sauce, and 2 tbsp warm water until smooth and pourable. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in additional warm water, 1 tbsp at a time. Season with 1/4 tsp salt.

Pour some of the cashew sauce over the noodles and toss to coat. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with the arugula, julienned apple, roasted cashews, and cilantro. Serve immediately, tossing everything together at the table and passing the remaining cashew sauce alongside.

Note: Sambal Oelek is a tangy Thai chili paste found in the Asian foods aisle at most grocery stores. If you cannot find it, substitute Sriracha.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 406; Total Fat: 22g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 7g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 492mg; Carbohydrate: 49g; Dietary Fiber: 8g; Sugar: 8g; Protein: 12g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 6%; Iron: 22%; Potassium: 395mg; Vitamin A: 1%; Vitamin C: 7%

Originally published: May 31, 2020; Updated July 2026