Somen Salad (Japanese Cold Noodle Salad)
Equipment
Ingredients
Noodles & Toppings
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cucumber, finely diced
- ½ cup green lettuce, finely shredded
- ¼ cup matchstick carrots
- 2 imitation crab sticks, shredded
- 2 –3 slices fish cake, thinly sliced
- 4 oz somen noodles, see note 1
Dressing
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp water
- Optional Garnish: sesame seeds, scallions
Instructions
- Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat and pour in beaten eggs. Cook into one whole sheet and remove. Let cool, then slice into thin strips.
- Prep your toppings: dice cucumber, shred lettuce, slice fish cake, and tear imitation crab into strips.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and water to create the dressing.
- Boil somen noodles for 2 minutes, then rinse under cold water until chilled.
- Place noodles in a bowl and top with egg strips, crab, fish cake, cucumber, carrots, and lettuce. Drizzle over the dressing.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
A Light, Refreshing Summer Salad
Somen Salad is one of those dishes that brings a little joy to a hot day. The cold noodles are soft and delicate, the vegetables are crisp and refreshing, and the soy-based dressing ties everything together with just the right balance of savory and tangy. It’s the kind of meal you’ll find yourself craving again and again, especially when you want something that feels light but still filling.
Why It Belongs in Your Summer Rotation
This salad is quick to prepare and endlessly versatile. You can make it ahead for a work lunch, bring it to a picnic, or serve it as a side at dinner. Plus, it’s easy to customize, swap in other proteins like tofu or grilled chicken, or add edamame for extra plant-based protein. It’s cool, flavorful, and makes eating vegetables feel exciting.
Ingredients for Somen Salad
This dish uses simple ingredients you can find at any Asian grocery store. Somen noodles are thin and delicate, cooking in just a couple of minutes. The egg ribbons, veggies, and imitation crab add color, texture, and variety. The sesame-soy dressing is light but bold, which is the perfect for coating the chilled noodles.
Main Ingredients
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup matchstick carrots
- 2 imitation crab sticks, shredded
- 2 to 3 slices fish cake, thinly sliced
- 4 oz somen noodles
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water
Optional Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Scallions
How to Make Somen Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by cooking your eggs in a thin layer, like a crepe. Let them cool, then slice into ribbons.
Prepare all your vegetables and toppings: dice cucumber, shred lettuce, slice fish cake, and pull apart the crab sticks.
Whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, pepper, and water to make the dressing.
Boil somen noodles for about 2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly under cold water until fully chilled.
Assemble the salad: place noodles in a bowl, then arrange all toppings neatly on top. Drizzle over the dressing.
Finish with sesame seeds and scallions if you like.
Tips and Variations
Can I Prep This Ahead?
Yes. You can make all the components ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Somen Noodles?
You can substitute soba, rice noodles, or even thin spaghetti. Just make sure to rinse well after cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does somen salad last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate for best results.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the crab and fish cake, and replace with tofu, avocado, or extra egg.
Is it served cold or room temperature?
Cold is best! The chilled noodles and crisp veggies are what make this salad so refreshing.
You Might Also Like
- Want a creamy noodle option? Try my Sesame Noodles
- Looking for another light dish? Check out my Chili Garlic Butter Noodles.
- Need a meal prep lunch idea? Make my Rose Noodles.
