To make the noodles
Cook the somen noodles as directed on the package, strain, and place them in the large bowl filled with ice and water. The noodles should sit nice and pretty in the ice bath.
To serve
Serve family-style in the middle of the table. Using tongs or chopsticks, put some noodles into your individual bowls, shaking off any residual water.
Add your choice of seasonings and toppings—tofu, ponzu sauce, katsuobushi, sprouts (it’s all optional here!)—and enjoy on that hot summer day.