Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are my favorite noodle recipe to date! With just a few ingredients, this dish is gluten-free and can be ready in 15 minutes. Enjoy them hot or cold, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner at home. The balance of garlic and sesame creates an irresistible flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday items you likely already have in your pantry.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing salad.
• Gluten-Free: Made with brown rice noodles, suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Flavor Packed: A delightful mix of garlic, sesame, and ginger brings bold flavors to the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make everything smoother. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Pan: Perfect for sautéing garlic and mixing your sauce without burning it.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic effortless, ensuring even distribution in your dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles:

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1/4-1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons veggie broth
• 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 teaspoon sriracha
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press. The smaller it is, the better it will mix into the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add the minced garlic to a pan with your choice of neutral oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut). Sauté until the edges turn golden brown.

Step 4: Whisk Sauce Ingredients

Meanwhile, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients in a bowl until there are no visible clumps of ginger and the tahini is well mixed.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic and stir well. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Mix Noodles with Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and combine it with the sauce mixture in the pan. Toss well to coat all noodles evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Garnish your dish with fresh scallions, red pepper flakes, and crushed peanuts if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Sesame Noodles!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, dinner, or a potluck dish, these noodles will satisfy your cravings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the garlic sesame noodles hot as a satisfying main course. Pair with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Cold Noodle Salad

• Let the noodles cool and toss them with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers for a refreshing salad. Drizzle with extra sesame oil for flavor.

Topped with Protein

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top of your noodles to make them more filling. This adds protein and makes it a complete meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. This adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the flavors of the garlic sesame noodles.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy the garlic sesame noodles cold straight from the fridge as leftovers. They taste great even after being stored overnight!

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

Perfecting garlic sesame noodles is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve noodle perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor than powdered alternatives. Always opt for fresh when possible.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of veggie broth or water to achieve your desired consistency while mixing.
• Taste as You Go: Always sample the sauce before combining it with the noodles. Adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
• Avoid Overcooking: Make sure not to overcook the noodles; they should be al dente for the best texture in your dish.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding different veggies like broccoli or snap peas for crunch, or nuts for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options to round out your meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutritional value and pairs well with the savory flavors of the noodles.
2. Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans can be served warm or cold and offer a fun pop of flavor.
3. Crispy Tofu Bites: Pan-fried tofu cubes seasoned lightly will add delicious crunch alongside your garlic sesame noodles.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting companion that enhances your Asian-inspired meal.
5. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with crunchy vegetables make an excellent appetizer that complements the noodle dish.
6. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the garlic prep: Not mincing the garlic finely can lead to uneven flavor. Use a garlic press or chop it very finely for the best results.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and taste-test before draining.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: If you don’t let the sauce simmer, it may not thicken properly. Allow 2-3 minutes of simmering for the right texture.
• Inadequate seasoning adjustments: Using too much or too little soy sauce can impact flavor. Always taste your sauce before mixing with noodles and adjust as needed.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions or crushed peanuts can make your dish less appealing. These add both flavor and visual appeal, so don’t leave them out!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Transfer to freezer-safe containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover noodles with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a quick and easy dish made with rice noodles, garlic, and sesame oil. They are flavorful and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure any sauces used are plant-based.

How do I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Proteins like tofu or chicken can also be included for a heartier meal.

What other dishes pair well with Garlic Sesame Noodles?

These noodles pair well with stir-fried vegetables or grilled proteins. They also complement Asian-inspired salads nicely.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses brown rice noodles, feel free to substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free options depending on your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences by adding various proteins or vegetables. Give this delightful dish a try, and enjoy its delicious flavors either warm or chilled!

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Garlic Sesame Noodles

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Garlic Sesame Noodles are a delightful and versatile dish that brings bold flavors to your table in just 15 minutes. Combining the rich taste of garlic with the nutty aroma of toasted sesame oil, this gluten-free recipe is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it hot as a satisfying main dish or cold as a refreshing salad. With simple ingredients like brown rice noodles, garlic, and soy sauce, you can whip up this easy meal using pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, these Garlic Sesame Noodles will keep everyone coming back for more.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons tahini

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of water and cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press.
3. In a pan, sauté the minced garlic in oil over medium heat until golden brown.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, tahini, honey/maple syrup, and sesame oil until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce into the pan with garlic and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Drain cooked noodles and add them to the pan, tossing well to coat evenly.
7. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy!

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, toss in steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas before serving. Customize your dish by adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Store leftovers in an airtight container; they can be enjoyed cold or reheated.