I’ve  recently  discovered  and  fallen  in  love  with  Japanese  soba  noodles.   Similar  in appearance  to thin spaghetti,  they  are  made  from  buckwheat  and  come  pre-bundled  in individual serving sizes.  Each serving has up to 14 grams of protein – an attribute that vegetarians will certainly appreciate. Soba noodles are not only good for you, they are  easy to prepare, which  makes them perfect for a quick lunch or snack.  In the six minutes it  takes you to cook these noodles, you will have plenty of time to make the dressing.  For an even heartier meal, you can also add a little shredded chicken or a handful of snap peas to the mix.

Individual serving sizes of soba noodles.

6 Minute Soba Noodle Lunch – serves 1

• 1 individual serving size bundle of soba noodles
• 1 tablespoon sunflower oil or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dark sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar or lime juice
• 1 small clove garlic, minced or grated with a rasp zester
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (more if you dare)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons scallions, green parts only, sliced on a diagonal

 Cook the soba noodles as directed in packaging instructions.  Meanwhile, make the dressing for the noodles.  To make the dressing combine the oils, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and chili flakes in a medium-sized mixing bowl.  Whisk together to combine ingredients.  Once noodles have cooked, drain and pour them into the bowl of sauce.  Combine the noodles and sauce soy until well incorporated and top with sesame seeds and scallions.  Enjoy hot.