Using the old noodle.

The big little has started to try a few more new foods.  "Strings" is a new favorite pasta shape, replacing "Tubes".  So, surprise of all surprises, the big little actually ate this pasta salad.  Full disclosure, we had to say that somebody else made it... but he gobbled it up and I was happy.  Def. a repeat in our house.  A nice dish to drop off to a family or bring to a potluck, it makes a nice lunch too.

Spicy Noodle Salad

Dressing:
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
2 TBSP chili sauce
2 TBSP sugar
2 TBSP sesame oil (I didn't have any, substituted olive oil, worked fine)
1 inch chunk of fresh ginger, peeled and grated finely or minced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp chili flakes (a tad hot, use the amt you think you can handle, less if serving to the littles)
ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup vegetable oil

Spaghettini or Vermicelli (any thin noodle will work)
grated carrots (I just bought the pre-shredded kind and used a ton!)
green onion, thinly sliced to taste

In a bowl, whisk all dressing ingredients together, making sure to whisk in vegetable oil in a thin stream.  Refrigerate until ready to use.  Can be prepared up to one week in advance (the flavor improves!).  Whisk again just before using.
Toss with cooked pasta, carrots and greens onions.

Tools of the trade.

The boys using their "noodles".

Precision building.

Note the concentration.  Now that's a good noodle workout.

Look Mama, we made "stairs"!

Sending Love,
Twin A