Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Broccoli Soba Bowl is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a light yet fulfilling meal. The crisp-tender broccoli pairs perfectly with the chewy soba noodles, while the savory dressing adds a deliciously balanced kick of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a refreshing dish to add to your meal prep, this bowl ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s highly customizable and can be made in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, making it an easy go-to meal for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces soba noodles
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds, if desired (for garnish)
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Soba Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions (usually around 4-5 minutes). Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a large bowl, toss the cooked soba noodles and sautéed broccoli together. Pour the dressing over the noodles and broccoli and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the bowl with toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or a boiled egg to the bowl.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the dressing.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soba noodles made from buckwheat or substitute with rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover soba bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just make sure to store the noodles and vegetables separately from the dressing to maintain texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the soba noodles and broccoli in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals. You can add a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil to keep it moist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of soba noodles?
Yes, you can substitute soba noodles with udon, rice noodles, or even regular wheat noodles if you prefer.
2. Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this Broccoli Soba Bowl is completely vegan as long as you ensure that the soy sauce you use is plant-based.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
While fresh broccoli is ideal for texture, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to cook it properly to avoid sogginess.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soba noodles or substitute with rice noodles to make the dish gluten-free.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this bowl?
Absolutely! This bowl is versatile, so you can add veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the flavor and nutrition.
6. What can I substitute for the toasted sesame oil?
If you don’t have toasted sesame oil, you can use regular sesame oil, or for a more neutral taste, try using olive oil.
7. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just toss everything together with the dressing when you're ready to eat.
8. How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. If you prefer a milder dish, you can leave them out or use a smaller pinch.
9. Can I make this dish without soy sauce?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a soy-free version, or use a light vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
10. How can I add more protein to this dish?
To increase the protein content, you can add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or tofu. For a vegetarian option, add edamame or chickpeas.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Soba Bowl is a quick, flavorful, and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With minimal ingredients, you can create a delicious, satisfying meal that’s light yet filling. Whether you enjoy it as is or add your own twist with extra veggies or protein, this bowl is a great addition to your meal rotation. Simple, healthy, and full of flavor—what’s not to love?
Broccoli Soba Bowl
- Total Time: 25minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Broccoli Soba Bowl is the perfect healthy, quick, and flavorful meal for any occasion. Featuring tender sautéed broccoli and chewy soba noodles, it’s enhanced with a savory dressing made of rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and soy sauce. Whether you’re in need of a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a meal prep option, this bowl can be made in under 30 minutes and customized with your favorite protein or vegetables. This dish is also vegan, gluten-free (with the right noodles), and highly versatile.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces soba noodles
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds, if desired (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Soba Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions (usually around 4-5 minutes). Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and slightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Bowl: In a large bowl, toss the cooked soba noodles and sautéed broccoli together. Pour the dressing over the noodles and broccoli and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top the bowl with toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or a boiled egg.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the dressing.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soba noodles made from buckwheat or substitute with rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Japanese
