Sesame Kale Noodles

These Sesame Kale Noodles are a savory, nutty, and nutrient-packed dish, combining tender noodles, crisp kale, and a flavorful sesame-soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a healthy side dish, this recipe is both simple and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Packed with flavor – A savory, umami-rich sesame-soy sauce.
• Healthy & nutrient-dense – Kale adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Customizable – Add protein, spice, or extra veggies!
• Great for meal prep – Stays fresh and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

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

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz noodles (ramen, soba, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cups kale, chopped (curly or lacinato kale)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

For the Sesame Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 tbsp peanut butter (for a creamy version)
• ½ cup cooked tofu, chicken, or shrimp
• Chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions, then drain and toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Kale

1. Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and kale, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the kale is slightly wilted but still vibrant.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and sesame seeds.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked noodles to the pan with kale, tossing to combine.
2. Pour in the sesame sauce, stirring until everything is well coated.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with sesame seeds, scallions, or extra red pepper flakes.
• Serve warm and enjoy your delicious sesame kale noodles!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sesame Noodles – Add 1 tsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce.
• Creamy Peanut Noodles – Mix 1 tbsp peanut butter into the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use tamari and rice noodles.
• High-Protein – Add grilled tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or chicken.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Heat in a pan with a splash of water or sesame oil.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use spinach instead of kale?

Yes! Spinach wilts faster, so cook it for just 1 minute.

What type of noodles work best?

Soba, rice noodles, ramen, or spaghetti all work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors get even better after sitting for a few hours.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Toss them with sesame oil after cooking.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Try bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes! This makes a great cold sesame noodle salad.

How do I make this extra crispy?

Pan-fry the noodles in a little sesame oil before adding the sauce.

What can I serve with this?

Pair with miso soup, dumplings, or a cucumber salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just adjust the sauce proportions accordingly.

Conclusion

These Sesame Kale Noodles are a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a light lunch. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, this nutty, savory, and slightly tangy noodle dish will be a go-to favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal!

Print