Long Life Noodles

Long life noodles, or longevity noodles, are a traditional Chinese dish for both birthdays and New Year. As their name indicates, these noodles symbolize living well into old age. Whatever you do, don't break them or cut them, as it is considered bad luck to do so.

1/2 cup creamy salted peanut butter
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 cup snow peas, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1 pound soba noodles or spaghetti
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1/4 cup minced cilantro

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir constantly until the peanut butter melts. Remove from the heat and set aside.

In a large bowl, combine the snow peas, carros, red bell pepper, and scallions.

Cook the noodles until al dente in a large pot of salted boiling water. Reserve 1/4 cup cooking water. Stir the noodles into the vegetable mixture and add the peanut sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a little cooking water. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.

6 to 8 servings (about 8 cups)
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes