Cold Sesame Noodles

This has more than 4 ingredients but many can be optional. It is so simple really and is delicious Thai-style noodle dish.

Coarse salt
1 pound spaghetti (can be made with Japanese noodles, such as udon or soba, or Chinese rice noodles. Cook according to package instructions.)
8 ounces snow peas, slivered lengthwise (optional)
1 red bell pepper, cut into long thin strips (optional)
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
2 garlic cloves
1 jalapeño pepper (seeds removed, if desired)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon Salt

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine pasta with snow peas and bell pepper.

In a blender, purée peanut butter, garlic, jalapeño, soy sauce, vinegar, 1/3 cup warm water, sesame oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Pour dressing over noodles and vegetables; toss to coat. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Yield: 4 servings