Homemade Peanut Butter Pasta is an intriguing fusion dish that perfectly marries comfort food with exotic Asian flavors. The process starts with cooking your choice of pasta until it’s just al dente, bringing a subtle yet satisfying touch of familiarity to your plate. Once the pasta is drained and set aside, the magic truly begins with a distinctive peanut butter sauce. This sauce is a concoction of creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and fragrant sesame oil, offering a symphony of sweet, salty, and tangy notes.
Adding minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes infuses the sauce with an aromatic kick and a hint of warmth. Gradually incorporating warm water into the mixture, you achieve a smooth and well-blended sauce that dances on the tongue with every bite.
Once the pasta is generously coated in the velvety peanut sauce, it’s time to elevate the dish with vibrant garnishes. Chopped peanuts contribute a satisfying crunch, fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbaceous flavor, and thinly sliced scallions lend a mild oniony zest.
Homemade Peanut Butter Pasta stands out not only for its delectable taste but also for its quick preparation time and wholesome ingredients. Rich in protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter and balanced with the carbohydrates from the pasta, it makes for a filling meal that’s both nutritious and flavorful. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a unique potluck offering, this dish is sure to captivate and delight all who try it.
Ingredients
8 oz (227 g) pasta
1/3 cup (80 ml) creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) rice vinegar
2 tbsp (30 ml) honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp (5 ml) grated fresh ginger
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup (60 ml) warm water
1/4 cup (25 g) chopped peanuts (for garnish)
1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
1-2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)
Directions
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl.
4. Gradually stir in the warm water until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the peanut sauce until evenly coated.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sliced scallions.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!