When you want something bold, comforting, and quick, Spicy Peanut Noodles with Shrimp and Snow Peas hit the spot. This dish combines tender noodles, juicy shrimp, and crisp snow peas tossed in a creamy peanut sauce that’s sweet, savory, tangy, and perfectly spicy.
Unlike takeout, this homemade version lets you control the heat level and sweetness, and it comes together in under 30 minutes—making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or an impressive last-minute dinner.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Noodles + Shrimp
- 8 oz (225g) noodles (rice noodles, spaghetti, or ramen-style noodles)
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups snow peas, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or rice vinegar)
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust heat)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/3 cup warm water (more as needed to thin)
Optional Toppings
- Chopped peanuts
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Cilantro
- Lime wedges
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: About 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a bowl, whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar (or lime juice), honey/maple syrup, sriracha, and sesame oil.
Slowly whisk in warm water until the sauce becomes smooth and pourable.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger and cook 30 seconds.
Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and opaque.
Step 4: Add the Snow Peas
Add snow peas to the skillet and stir-fry for 2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour in peanut sauce and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Finish with soy sauce and lime juice if needed. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with chopped peanuts, green onions, and sesame seeds for crunch.
- Add extra lime wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve with cucumber salad or steamed edamame on the side.
- Want it extra spicy? Add chili flakes or more sriracha.
- Great for meal prep—pack into containers and add a splash of water when reheating.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 30 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 55 grams |
| Sugars | 12 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 780 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp provides lean protein and key minerals like selenium.
- Peanut butter adds healthy fats and makes the sauce creamy without dairy.
- Snow peas add crunch, fiber, and freshness to balance the rich sauce.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Noodles
- Use warm water to thin the sauce smoothly (it thickens as it sits).
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—once pink, it’s done.
- Rinse noodles after cooking to prevent clumping.
- Adjust the heat by adding sriracha little by little.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of fish sauce or a pinch of brown sugar (optional).
Variations to Try
- Chicken Version: Swap shrimp for sliced chicken breast or thighs.
- Vegetarian: Use tofu or edamame instead of shrimp.
- Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli.
- Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles and gluten-free tamari.
- Creamier Sauce: Add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter and a little more water.
These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Shrimp and Snow Peas are the perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and fresh—ready in about 25 minutes and better than takeout. With a sauce that clings to every noodle and crisp veggies for balance, this recipe is a guaranteed weeknight winner.
Whether you keep it mild or crank up the heat, you’ll get a bold, satisfying bite every time.
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