This easy Sesame Noodles recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. With tender noodles tossed in a rich, savory sesame sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your rotation.
What makes these sesame noodles so special? It’s the way the sauce clings to every strand, delivering a bold and satisfying taste in every bite. A drizzle of sesame oil, a splash of soy sauce, and a hint of garlic create a harmony of flavors that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. Plus, you can dress it up however you like — add crunchy vegetables, a kick of spice, or your favorite protein. This dish is endlessly adaptable and always a hit, whether you prefer it warm or chilled.
Why You'll Love these Sesame Noodles
- Ready in just 20 minutes. This dish comes together in no time! Cook the noodles, whisk together the sauce, toss everything together, and it’s ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Bold and savory flavor. Sure, there are plenty of noodle recipes out there, but this one stands out for its rich, nutty flavor and perfectly balanced sesame sauce. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a depth of umami that makes every bite irresistible.
- Customizable to your taste. One of the best things about these sesame noodles is how adaptable they are. Want it spicy? Add some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. Prefer a protein boost? Toss in shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp. It’s a flexible, fuss-free dish that you can make your own!
Ingredient Notes
To make these easy Sesame Noodles, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):
- noodles – the typical type of noodles to use are wheat noodles or long pasta noodles (such as spaghetti!). You can of course substitute your favorite type of noodles such as ramen or rice noodles too.
- oil - for cooking the sauce in. Use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil.
- garlic - essential aromatic that infuses the sauce with bold, savory flavor.
- soy sauce – adds rich, salty umami flavor to the sauce.
- rice vinegar (or Chinese black vinegar) – provides a subtle tang that balances the richness of the sauce.
- sesame oil – the star ingredient that gives these noodles their signature nutty flavor.
- tahini paste – adds creaminess, more sesame flavor, and depth to the sauce.
- peanut butter - this is optional, for extra creaminess and nutty flavor.
- sesame seeds – enhances the sesame flavor.
- scallions – For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
You will also need measuring cups and spoons and a large mixing bowl.
How to Make the Best Sesame Noodles
- Cook noodles. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles until al dente, or in accordance with package instructions, stirring occasionally. Reserve ¼ cup of the noodle cooking water in a small bowl. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold running water.
- Sauté aromatics. While the noodles are cooking, heat oil in a skillet until the oil sizzles, about 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Make sauce. Add soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, tahini paste, and peanut butter. Stir well until smooth. If the sauce mixture is too thick, stir in the reserved noodle water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Add noodles. Add cooked noodles into the sauce mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the noodles are warmed through. Add sesame seeds and toss well.
- Serve. Sprinkle with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Recipe Variations
- Add more veggies. This dish is a great way to pack in extra vegetables! Try tossing in shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or edamame for added texture and nutrients.
- Make it spicy. Love a little heat? Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of chili oil, or a drizzle of sriracha to amp up the spice level.
- Switch up the protein. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or shrimp. Even a soft-boiled egg pairs beautifully with the rich sesame sauce.
- Try different noodles. While traditional sesame noodles are made with wheat noodles, you can experiment with soba, udon, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
How to Serve
These sesame noodles are delicious served warm, cold, or at room temperature. Pair them with some of our favorite simple sides for a complete meal:
- Chinese Garlic Cucumber Salad
- Sautéed Garlic Green Beans
- Pork Dumplings
- Kung Pao Tofu
- Easy Wonton Soup
For more Chinese inspired side dishes, see our 25 Best Dim Sum Recipes.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Don’t overcook the noodles. Rinse the noodles under cold water after cooking to keep them from sticking together and to maintain the perfect texture.
- Adjust the sauce consistency. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm water or extra soy sauce to thin it out.
- Try toasted sesame oil. For even more flavor, use toasted sesame oil rather than regular sesame oil. It has a deeper, nuttier aroma that enhances the dish.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
Allow leftover sesame noodles to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat
Sesame noodles are delicious cold as a noodle salad! But if you prefer them warm, reheat gently in the microwave or in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
FAQ
It’s not ideal to freeze these noodles, as the texture may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months and toss it with freshly cooked noodles when ready to serve.
Yes! Sesame Noodles are a great make-ahead meal. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them even more delicious the next day. Just give them a quick toss before serving.
Spaghetti, ramen, or Chinese egg noodles work well. For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or soba noodles.
More Recipes
- Noodle Recipes
- Peanut Noodles
- Spicy Dan Dan Noodles
- Vegan Soba Noodle Salad
- Vegetarian Chow Mein
- Lo Mein Noodles
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Recipe
Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This easy Sesame Noodles recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. With tender noodles tossed in a rich, savory sesame sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound wheat noodles or long pasta noodles (such as spaghetti)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or chinese black vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons tahini paste
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional)
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon scallions, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles until al dente, or in accordance with package instructions, stirring occasionally. Reserve ¼ cup of the noodle cooking water in a small bowl. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold running water.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat oil in a skillet until the oil sizzles, about 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, tahini paste, and peanut butter. Stir well until smooth. If the sauce mixture is too thick, stir in the reserved noodle water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Add cooked noodles into the sauce mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the noodles are warmed through. Add sesame seeds and toss well.
- Sprinkle with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
How to store: Allow leftover sesame noodles to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
How to reheat: Sesame noodles are delicious cold as a noodle salad! But if you prefer them warm, reheat gently in the microwave or in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Noodles
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Chinese
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