Peanut Noodles

Ingredients

• 12 ozSpaghetti$1.60
• 1/2 cupPeanut butter$2.70
• 2Carrots$1.20
• 1 bunchGreen onions$1.20
• 3 tbspSoy sauce$0.45
• 1Lime$0.40
• Total for 4 servings$7.55

Most of the cost is peanut butter ($2.70) and spaghetti ($1.60). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $2.80. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Julienne the carrots and thinly slice the green onions.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice until thick and well combined.
3. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat, add the spaghetti, and cook over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes until tender with a slight bite.
4. Add the carrots directly to the boiling pasta water and cook over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes until crisp-tender, then carefully ladle out 1/2 cup of hot pasta water before draining the pot in a colander.
5. Gradually whisk the reserved hot pasta water into the peanut butter mixture a couple of tablespoons at a time until smooth and pourable, then toss thoroughly with the warm spaghetti, carrots, and green onions until evenly coated.
6. Divide the noodles among four bowls and serve immediately warm, or chill in the refrigerator to serve cold.