Tomato Tuna Somen Noodles
Cold Tomato Tuna Somen – A Refreshing Japanese Summer Noodle Recipe
When the weather starts heating up, I always crave cold noodle dishes that feel light but still satisfying. In Japan, cold somen noodles are one of the ultimate summer comfort foods. These thin wheat noodles cook in just a couple of minutes and are usually enjoyed chilled with a simple dipping sauce.
This Tomato Tuna Somen is one of my favorite easy summer lunches because it uses ingredients I almost always have at home - canned tuna, tomatoes, and mentsuyu. The juicy tomatoes create a naturally refreshing sauce, while sesame oil and ginger add a savory aroma that makes the dish feel incredibly satisfying despite how simple it is.
The fresh shiso leaves bring everything together with their bright herbal flavor, making this dish taste like summer in Japan in every bite. Best of all, it comes together in under 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays, hot afternoons, or lazy summer dinners.
Why You'll Love This Cold Somen Recipe
Ready in just 10 minutes
Perfect for hot summer days
Light yet filling
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Easy to customize with vegetables or spice
Kid-friendly and refreshing
What is Somen?
Somen is a traditional Japanese noodle made from wheat flour. They are extremely thin, delicate noodles typically served cold during the summer months in Japan.
Somen noodles cook very quickly and are usually rinsed under cold water after boiling to create their signature refreshing texture. They are commonly enjoyed with dipping sauce, but they also work beautifully in simple noodle bowls like this one.
Tips & Variations
Make it Spicy - Add chili oil or Shichimi Togarashi for extra heat.
Add More Vegetables - Cucumber, okra, or even corn work beautifully in this cold noodle dish.
No Shiso? - Fresh basil or mint can provide a similar refreshing flavor.
Add More Protein - Soft-boiled eggs or shredded chicken make this meal even more filling.
Storage Tips
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and cold. If preparing ahead, store the sauce separately from the noodles and combine just before serving to maintain the best texture.
RECIPE
Servings: 2
Time: 10 min
Ingredients:
2 servings somen noodles
1 ripe tomato
1 can tuna (in oil or water, drained)
3–4 shiso leaves (or substitute with basil if unavailable)
2 tbsp mentsuyu (Japanese noodle soup base)
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp grated ginger
Instructions:
Prep the ingredients
Dice the tomato into small pieces and finely chop the shiso leaves.
Make the sauce
In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped tomato, mentsuyu, water, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and grated ginger.
Mix gently.
Cook the somen
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the somen noodles according to the package instructions (usually 1.5–2 minutes).
Drain and rinse well under cold running water to stop the cooking and remove excess starch.
Combine and serve
Add the cold somen noodles to the sauce bowl and toss until well coated.
Top with chopped shiso leaves and an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like.
Serve immediately while cold.
FAQ
Can I use other noodles instead of somen?
Yes. Udon, soba, or even pasta can work, though somen gives the lightest and most refreshing texture.
What does somen taste like?
Somen noodles are mild and delicate, making them perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces and toppings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the tomato tuna mixture ahead of time and keep it chilled. Cook the noodles fresh before serving for the best texture.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes. The mild flavors and refreshing noodles make it very approachable for kids, especially during warm weather.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute the tuna with tofu or mashed avocado and use a vegetarian-friendly mentsuyu.
You May Also Like This Recipe
If you love refreshing summer noodles, try my Japanese Cold Udon Salad recipe.
Looking for more easy Japanese lunches? Check out this quick Japanese meal idea.
Pair this somen recipe with a refreshing Japanese side dish, Spinach Gomaae.
Try another easy canned tuna recipe, Napa Cabbage Tuna Salad for busy weekdays.
