Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking. Set aside and continue to let drain. In a large bowl, whisk together the marinade/dressing ingredients until sugar dissolves. Add the drained noodles to the dressing and toss until pasta is coated evenly with dressing. The pasta will not immediately absorb all the dressing; cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place noodles in the fridge for about 15 minutes. Toss noodles again to ensure dressing is distributed evenly and continues to be absorbed by the noodles. Cover and store in the fridge for another 15 minutes. Toss once more. Store in the fridge covered until ready to serve. When ready to serve, transfer noodles to a serving bowl or platter. Toss together the garnish ingredients with the reserved dressing and spread on top of the noodles. **OPTIONAL GARNISHES: Fresh shiitake mushrooms or finely sliced fresh snow peas. **NOTE: I recommend making the noodles at least 2 hours ahead of serving so dressing flavors can fully incorporate. |