Soba Noodles

1/3 cup sesame seeds
salt
8-10 ounces soba noodles
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
5 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons honey
2 teaspoons sesame oil
5 scallions, thin-sliced on the diagonal

Variations:

Poach prawns, chill and let marinate in the dressing before adding to the noodles.

Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over a high heat until they look golden brown. Turn out on a dinner plate to cool down.

Have a bowl of ice water ready while bringing a pot of salted water to boil. Add the soba noodles and cook them for about 6 minutes or according to package instructions until they are just tender. Don't overcook. Drain and plunge into ice water.

In a bowl, mix the vinegar, soy sauce, honey and oil. Drain the noodles and add to the dressing bowl, along with the scallions. Toss to coat, and sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top and toss again.

Let sit at room temperature for 1/2 hour before serving.

Serves 2 as entree, or 4 as first course