Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 2 1/2 cups

　　1 cup peanut butter

　　1/4 cup soy sauce

　　1/4 cup Asian sesame oil

　　3 tablespoons rice vinegar (not seasoned)

　　2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic

　　2 tablespoons grated peeled fresh gingerroot

　　1 1/2 teaspoons Asian chili paste* or 1 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes or to taste

　　1 tablespoon hoisin sauce*, or to taste

　　1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

　　3/4 cup water

　　*available at Asian markets, some specialty foods shops, and supermarkets

　　

Step 1

In a blender or food processor blend all ingredients with salt to taste until smooth. Transfer sauce to a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Peanut sauce keeps, covered and chilled, 1 week.

　　

To use peanut sauce:

Step 2

Boil 1 pound Asian noodles or spaghetti until al dents and drain in a colander. Rinse noodles under cold water until cool and drain. Toss noodles with about 3/4 cup sauce and finely chopped scallion to taste. Serves 4 to 6.