Spicy Peanut Noodles

For milder noodles, start with 1 tsp. chile paste. If you want more spice, add a dab at a time, tasting as you go

8 oz. linguine
1/3 cup low-fat creamy peanut butter
2 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
1 1/2 Tbs. rice wine vinegar
1 to 2 tsp. chile paste with garlic
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 medium-size red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
3/4 cup chopped seeded cucumber
3 green onions, sliced diagonally into 1/4-inch pieces (about 1/4 cup)
2 Tbs. chopped cilantro
4 lime wedges, optional

Directions:
1. Cook linguine according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, combine peanut butter, 1?4 cup water, soy sauce, vinegar, chile paste and sugar in large bowl; whisk until blended. If sauce seems too thick, thin it with a little water; it should have the consistency of cream.

3. Add linguine, bell pepper, cucumber and green onions, and toss well. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with lime wedges, if desired.

30 minutes or fewer; Serves 6
Vegetarian Times: Spicy Peanut Noodles 04/01/2006 p42