COLD CHINESE NOODLE SALAD RECIPES

Steps:

• Cook noodles in boiling water for 2 to 4 minutes, testing frequently so they don't overcook. Drain well and toss with sesame oil. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 days ahead.
• Combine remaining ingredients except green onion and mix well. (Sesame paste often separates and can be difficult to recombine. Paste and some oil can be processed in food processor with steel knife. Add garlic and ginger, and while paste is being blended, garlic and ginger will be finely minced.) Refrigerate for up to a week. Before serving, return to room temperature.
• To serve, mix sauce with noodles and serve topped with green onion.

Steps:

• Using the side of a chef’s knife, crush Sichuan peppercorns until coarsely ground. (You can also do this in a spice mill if you have one.) Transfer to a small heatproof bowl and add scallions, garlic, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes.
• Heat oil in a small heavy saucepan until the first sign of smoke. Using a towel to hold the handle, immediately pour oil into bowl with Sichuan peppercorn mixture. (This technique releases the flavors of the aromatics without burning them.) Stir in tamari and vinegar and season dressing with salt; let cool.
• Cook corn in a large pot of boiling generously salted water until bright yellow and tender, about 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a large bowl of cold water and let cool.
• Cook green beans in same pot of water until bright green and tender, about 1 minute. Using slotted spoon, transfer to bowl with corn and let cool. Drain; set vegetables aside.
• Return water in pot to a boil and cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold running water; drain well.
• Combine noodles and reserved corn and green beans in a large bowl. Drizzle in ½ cup dressing and toss to coat. (You can add more dressing if desired; reserve any leftovers for another use.) Do ahead: Dressing can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and chill.