Cold sesame noodles are the kind of dish that sneaks up on you—simple to make, yet packed with flavor that will have you going back for more. I love how easily it comes together on those days when cooking feels like a chore, yet I still want something delicious. The sesame paste gives it this rich, nutty taste, while the chill of the noodles makes it perfect for warmer weather. Wait till you see how you can make it your own.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Cold sesame noodles are a invigorating and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, nutty flavor and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
- Easy to Prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal cooking required.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or vegetables for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Serve as a light lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer.
Recipe
Cold sesame noodles are a revitalizing and flavorful dish, perfect for summer meals or quick lunches. This recipe combines nutty sesame flavors with a hint of spice, creating a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
8 oz noodles (such as udon, soba, or linguine)
3 tbsp sesame paste (or tahini)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or sugar)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp chili oil (optional, for spice)
2 tbsp water (for thinning the sauce)
Toppings: sesame seeds, sliced scallions, shredded cucumber, or crushed peanuts
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
- In a bowl, whisk together sesame paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and chili oil (if using). Add water to thin the sauce to a smooth consistency.
- Toss the noodles in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Top with sesame seeds, scallions, cucumber, or peanuts before serving.
Notes:
- Substitute tahini for sesame paste if unavailable.
- Adjust spice level by adding more chili oil or omitting it entirely.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Equipment
To prepare cold sesame noodles, having the right equipment guarantees a smooth cooking process. This recipe requires a few essential kitchen tools.
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Tongs or chopsticks for serving
Nutrition
Cold sesame noodles are a flavorful and satisfying dish that offers a balance of taste and nutrition. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing.
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 12g from the noodles and sesame seeds
- Carbohydrates: 45g, primarily from the noodles
- Fiber: 5g, contributed by the vegetables and whole-grain noodles
- Healthy Fats: 14g, mostly from sesame oil and tahini
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my cold sesame noodles with steamed veggies for a fresh crunch, or adding grilled chicken slices for extra protein. Summer rolls or a tangy kimchi side dish bring a fun twist to the meal, and pickled cucumbers add a zesty bite. These combos make the dish feel complete and keep things exciting!
Steamed Vegetables
Since cold sesame noodles are rich and flavorful, pairing them with steamed vegetables adds a revitalizing balance to the meal. I love tossing steamed broccoli on the side—it’s simple and absorbs that nutty sesame taste perfectly. Experiment with vegetable variations like zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for a pop of color and crunch. Steaming keeps them fresh and light, letting you enjoy every bite without feeling weighed down.
Grilled Chicken Slices
Though I’m a big fan of the cold sesame noodles, adding grilled chicken slices takes the dish to a whole new level. I love experimenting with grilled marination techniques, like using soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey to enhance chicken flavor profiles. It’s simple, yet the smoky, savory notes blend perfectly with the noodles. Grilling keeps it light, and you’ll feel free to customize it your way.
Summer Rolls
Summer rolls make a revitalizing companion to cold sesame noodles, offering a light and crisp contrast to the dish’s rich, nutty flavors. I love how their fresh ingredients—crunchy veggies, herbs, and rice paper—create a rejuvenating bite. The flavor combinations work beautifully, balancing savory, tangy, and sweet notes. They’re easy to customize, too, letting you play with what you have on hand. Perfect for a meal that feels both carefree and satisfying.
Kimchi Side Dish
Kimchi brings a bold, tangy kick that pairs wonderfully with cold sesame noodles, adding a layer of complexity to the meal. I love how its spicy kimchi flavor balances the nutty sweetness of the noodles. The magic of kimchi fermentation creates that zesty crunch that’s hard to resist. It’s a side dish that’s both invigorating and bold, perfect for when you want something exciting but simple.
Pickled Cucumbers
Pickled cucumbers are a crisp, invigorating addition that brightens up any plate of cold sesame noodles. I love their tangy crunch, and experimenting with pickling techniques—like quick-brining or fermentation—unlocks bold flavors. Persian or Kirby cucumber varieties work best, staying firm and fresh. Toss in some chili flakes or garlic for extra kick. Trust me, they’ll make your noodles sing with every revitalizing bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Peanut Butter Instead of Sesame Paste?
I’ve wondered if peanut butter could step in for sesame paste. The flavor comparison is close, but peanut butter’s sweeter, nuttier twist might surprise you. It’s not the same, but it’s a bold, freeing swap.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
I’m checking if this recipe’s gluten-free. For gluten-free options, I’d swap regular noodles for rice or chickpea pasta. Sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos work if the original sauce isn’t gluten-free.
How Long Do the Noodles Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
I’d store the noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. For better noodle storage, I’d toss them with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Freshness tips? Keep them chilled and eat them quickly!
Can I Substitute Spaghetti for the Noodles?
Like choosing a different path in a forest of flavors, I’d swap spaghetti for noodles. Its texture, though firmer, can still dance with sauce. Noodle alternatives set me free—it’s all about the journey, not the trail.
What’S the Best Way to Reheat Cold Sesame Noodles?
When reheating, I prefer gentle reheating techniques to avoid overcooking. I’ll microwave in short bursts or toss them in a pan with a splash of water to bring the noodle temperature up evenly without losing texture.
