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Sesame Kale Noodles

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These Sesame Kale Noodles are savory, nutty, and packed with flavor, featuring tender noodles, garlicky kale, and a rich sesame-soy sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish makes a perfect quick meal, side dish, or meal prep option!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Noodles:

  • 8 oz noodles (ramen, soba, rice noodles, or spaghetti!)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick!)

For the Sesame Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free!)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp tahini or peanut butter (for extra creaminess!)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (balances the flavors!)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (adds freshness!)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (plus more for garnish!)

For Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra sesame seeds
  • Crushed peanuts or cashews (optional, for crunch!)
  • Lime wedges (for a bright finish!)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook noodles according to package instructions.
  2. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Kale

  1. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of sesame oil.
  2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in chopped kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted but still vibrant.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, tahini/peanut butter, maple syrup, ginger, and sesame seeds until smooth.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

  1. Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the kale and pour in the sesame sauce.
  2. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes over low heat until well coated.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

  1. Divide into bowls and top with green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts.
  2. Serve warm with a squeeze of lime and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • Add Protein: Top with tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
  • Make It Spicier: Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil.
  • Crunch Factor: Sprinkle with crispy shallots or toasted cashews.

Notes

  • Want a creamier sauce? Add 2 tbsp coconut milk or extra tahini.
  • No kale? Swap for spinach, bok choy, or shredded cabbage.
  • Gluten-free? Use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.