Sesame & Ginger Cold Noodle Salad

This is the lunch for warm days when you want something refreshing and satisfying. Cold noodles, shredded carrot, cucumber, and a punchy sesame-ginger dressing. It's great for meal prep—make a big batch and eat it all week.

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 150g soba noodles or wholewheat noodles
• 1 carrot, grated
• ¼ cucumber, cut into matchsticks
• 2 spring onions, sliced (green part only)
• A handful of fresh coriander or mint

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 2–3 tbsp warm water

Method:

1. Cook the noodles according to packet instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
2. Whisk the dressing ingredients together, adding enough warm water to make it pourable.
3. Toss the cold noodles with the carrot, cucumber, spring onions, herbs, and dressing.
4. Eat immediately, or refrigerate for later.

Why it's gut-friendly: Soba noodles are made from buckwheat, which is gluten-free and rich in fibre. Ginger is a digestive aid. Tahini provides healthy fats.