1/2 lb asparagus, cut in 1″ pieces
1 cup snow peas, trimmed
6 ounces rice noodles
1 cup red bell pepper strips
1 cup yellow bell pepper strips
1 cup chopped green onions
1 cup fresh bean spouts
Dressing
1/2 cup water
2 tsp dark sesame oil
1.5 tbsp dark brown sugar
3 tbsp peanut butter
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1.5 tbsp soy sauce
1 garlic clove, optional
1/4 tsp ground red pepper
Bring water to boil in a large saucepan. Add rice noodles and cook as per package directions. Add asparagus and snow peas for the last two minutes. Drain and rinse well.
Briefly blanch pepper strips in hot water if desired. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Add all vegetables together with the noodles.
Combine all sauce ingredients and stir until smooth. Add to noodles and vegetables. Adjust seasonings. The noodles will soak up the sauce as the dish sits.
Serve cold or at room temperature.