For the Sauce:

• • ¼ cup tahini (or sesame paste)

• • 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter

• • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

• • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

• • 2 garlic cloves, grated

• • 1–2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated

• • 2–3 tablespoons warm water, to thin the sauce

• • Optional: ½–1 teaspoon chili crisp or Sriracha for heat

For the Noodles & Toppings:

• • 8 oz (225g) noodles (lo mein, soba, spaghetti, or rice noodles)

• • 1 medium cucumber, julienned or sliced

• • 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded

• • 2 scallions, sliced

• • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

• • Chopped cilantro or mint (optional)

• • Chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)

Optional proteins:

• • Tofu, shredded chicken, edamame, or tempeh