Boil water in a large pot. Add 6 oz of glass noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside in a bowl.

In the bowl with noodles, add 1 cup of cooked shrimp or shredded chicken, 1 thinly sliced cucumber, 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper, and 1 shredded carrot. Toss gently.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp fish sauce if using. Add 1 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp sesame oil, blending until sugar dissolves.

Pour dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.

Before serving, sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped peanuts and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro on top.