Garlic Sesame Noodles

These Garlic Sesame Noodles are a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender noodles tossed in a savory, garlicky sesame sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a main meal, these noodles come together in just 15 minutes and can be served warm or cold.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Rich & Savory Flavor – A perfect balance of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame.
• Versatile – Enjoy hot or cold, as a main dish or a side.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Easily Customizable – Add veggies, protein, or spice for extra flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Noodles:

• Noodles (spaghetti, ramen, soba, or lo mein)
• Sesame oil

For the Garlic Sesame Sauce:

• Soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• Sesame oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Rice vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup (for a hint of sweetness)
• Sriracha or red pepper flakes (for spice, optional)
• Ginger (grated, optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Green onions (chopped)
• Sesame seeds
• Crushed peanuts or cashews
• Cilantro
• Lime wedges

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil Water – Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain & Toss – Drain and toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sesame Sauce

1. Heat Sesame Oil – In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium-low heat.
2. Sauté Garlic – Add minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and sauté until fragrant.
3. Whisk Sauce Ingredients – Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha. Simmer for 1 minute.

Step 3: Toss & Serve

1. Mix the Noodles & Sauce – Pour the sauce over the cooked noodles and toss to coat evenly.
2. Garnish & Enjoy – Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, and crushed nuts.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sesame Noodles – Add extra sriracha or chili oil.
• Peanut Butter Noodles – Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for a creamy twist.
• Veggie-Packed – Add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or spinach.
• Protein Boost – Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or a fried egg.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended (noodles can become mushy).
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or sesame oil.

FAQs

Can I eat these noodles cold?

Yes! They taste great warm or chilled.

What’s the best noodle type for this recipe?

Lo mein, ramen, soba, or even spaghetti work well.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of sesame oil.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add ½ teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before simmering.

What can I serve with these noodles?

Pair with stir-fried veggies, dumplings, or grilled meats.

Can I use bottled sesame dressing instead?

Yes, but homemade sauce has a fresher, better flavor.

How do I make these extra crunchy?

Top with crispy fried onions or roasted sesame seeds.

Can I meal prep these noodles?

Yes! They store well and are great for grab-and-go lunches.

What’s a good low-carb alternative?

Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes! Sautéed shiitake mushrooms add great umami flavor.

Conclusion

These Garlic Sesame Noodles are the perfect balance of savory, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a side or a main dish, they’re easy to make and packed with deliciousness. Try them today and enjoy a quick, satisfying meal!

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