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Fresh Salmon Soba Noodle Salad Easy Recipe with Sesame Soy Dressing

fresh salmon soba noodle salad - featured image

A quick and easy salmon soba noodle salad with a nutty sesame-soy dressing, fresh veggies, and tender salmon. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 7 ounces (200 grams) dried soba noodles
  • 2 fresh salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170 grams) each, skinless or skin-on
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 small cucumber, seeded and julienned
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and julienned
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • A small handful fresh cilantro or basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 7 ounces (200 grams) soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Set aside to drain well.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
  4. Heat a medium nonstick pan over medium heat. Lightly oil if needed. Season salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook skin-side down first for about 4 minutes, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes, until opaque and flaky inside. Alternatively, poach salmon gently in simmering water for about 8 minutes.
  5. While salmon cooks, julienne 1 small cucumber and 1 medium carrot. Slice 2 green onions thinly. If using cilantro or basil, chop a small handful.
  6. In a large bowl, combine drained soba noodles, vegetables, and green onions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  7. Once slightly cooled, use a fork to gently flake the salmon into bite-sized chunks and fold into the noodle mixture.
  8. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs if using. Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender. Rinse soba noodles under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent sogginess. Toss noodles with dressing while still slightly warm for better flavor absorption. For gluten-free, use 100% buckwheat soba noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce. Adding salmon just before serving keeps textures fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon soba noodle salad, sesame soy dressing, easy salmon recipe, soba noodles, healthy salad, quick dinner, Japanese salad