Spicy Sesame Noodle Salad with Apple and Carrot

Servings:
Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients:

1/3 cup peanut butter (preferably all-natural)
1/4 cup Oriental or roasted sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, halved
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
3 tablespoons orange juice
2 1/2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice or balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons chili oil
1 package (16-ounce) spaghetti
2 carrots, scrubbed or peeled
1 Red Delicious apple
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 green onions, chopped

Method:

1) To make sesame dressing, combine peanut butter, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in food processor or blender; process until well combined. Set aside. (Dressing can be made several days ahead and kept refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.)

2) Just before serving, cook spaghetti al dente according to package directions. Drain, rinse spaghetti under cold water, and drain again to prevent sticking. Toss with sesame dressing and transfer to large platter. With knife or mandoline, cut carrots into matchstick-like strips; scatter over pasta. Core apple and cut into matchstick-like strips; sprinkle with lemon juice and scatter over pasta. Top with onion and serve.