Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are undoubtedly my favorite noodle recipe to date! They require just a few ingredients, are gluten-free, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a delightful picnic treat, these noodles stand out with their rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Step 1: Boil the Noodles
- Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
- Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- Step 4: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic
- Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
- Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles
- As a Main Dish
- Cold Noodle Salad
- With Garnishes
- In Meal Prep
- How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make gluten-free garlic sesame noodles?
- Can I customize my garlic sesame noodles?
- What is the best way to serve garlic sesame noodles?
- How long do garlic sesame noodles last in the fridge?
- Are garlic sesame noodles vegan?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: Ready in just 15 minutes, these noodles are perfect for busy days.
- Versatile: Enjoy them hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing salad.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic and sesame creates an irresistible taste.
- Gluten-Free Option: Made with brown rice noodles, they cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
- Simple Ingredients: With minimal items needed, you can whip this up anytime.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Garlic Sesame Noodles, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and 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 the noodles evenly without overcrowding.
- Pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic to release its flavor without burning it.
- Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic easier and faster if you prefer not to chop by hand.
Ingredients
- 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 teaspoons 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. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press. This step ensures that the garlic integrates well into the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to a pan with your choice of neutral oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut).
* Sauté until the edges of the garlic turn golden brown; be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until smooth.
* Ensure there are no visible clumps of ginger and that tahini is well blended throughout.
Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic.
* Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for about 2–3 minutes.
* This allows it to thicken slightly for better coating on the noodles.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
When your pasta is done cooking, add it directly into the pan with the sauce.
* Toss until all noodles are coated evenly in that delicious garlicky goodness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Garlic Sesame Noodles with scallions, red pepper flakes, crushed peanuts, or fresh parsley. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe makes four servings, perfect for sharing or meal prepping!
How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles
Garlic sesame noodles are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a dinner that impresses, these noodles can fit right in.
As a Main Dish
- These garlic sesame noodles can stand alone as a hearty main course. Pair them with your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, for a complete meal.
Cold Noodle Salad
- Serve the noodles chilled as part of a refreshing salad. Toss in fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers for extra crunch.
With Garnishes
- Elevate the dish by adding garnishes such as scallions, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds. This not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.
In Meal Prep
- Garlic sesame noodles make an excellent meal prep option. Prepare them in advance and store in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.
How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles
Achieving the best flavor and texture for garlic sesame noodles is simple with a few helpful tips.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor dramatically compared to pre-minced options.
- Adjust soy sauce: Customize the saltiness by adjusting the amount of soy sauce or tamari used based on your taste preference.
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Follow package instructions carefully to ensure your noodles are perfectly al dente.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables to boost nutrition and add color. Options include spinach, carrots, or snap peas.
- Experiment with spice: For more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes during cooking.
- Perfect your sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles
Garlic sesame noodles pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that complements the soft noodles.
- Edamame Salad: A refreshing salad made with edamame, cucumber, and a light dressing creates a perfect balance.
- Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw with cabbage and carrots provides a crisp contrast to the creamy tahini-based sauce.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Grilled shrimp offer protein while adding smoky flavors that enhance the dish.
- Sesame Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with sesame oil ties in nicely with the noodle’s flavors.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and pairs well with the Asian-inspired noodle dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making garlic sesame noodles, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
Skipping the garlic prep: Not mincing the garlic finely can lead to uneven flavor in your sauce. Make sure to mince it well or use a garlic press for the best taste.
Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles longer than recommended can make them mushy. Always follow the package instructions and taste them a minute before they are supposed to be done.
Ignoring the sauce consistency: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it might not thicken properly. Allow it 2-3 minutes on low heat until it reaches your desired thickness.
Using regular soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can be too salty and overpowering. Opt for low sodium soy sauce or tamari to control the saltiness of your dish.
Forget garnishing: Skipping garnishes like scallions or crushed peanuts can take away from the dish’s presentation and texture. Don’t overlook this final touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Use freezer-safe containers for storage.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make gluten-free garlic sesame noodles?
You can easily make gluten-free garlic sesame noodles by using brown rice noodles or gluten-free pasta alternatives. Just ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.
Can I customize my garlic sesame noodles?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or protein such as tofu or chicken, for extra nutrition and flavor.
What is the best way to serve garlic sesame noodles?
Garlic sesame noodles can be served hot or cold. For a refreshing twist, chill them and enjoy as a cold noodle salad!
How long do garlic sesame noodles last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, garlic sesame noodles will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Are garlic sesame noodles vegan?
Yes, these garlic sesame noodles are vegan-friendly! They are made with plant-based ingredients like tahini and vegetable broth.
Final Thoughts
These easy garlic sesame noodles are not only quick but also packed with flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various proteins and veggies, making them perfect for any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dish that you can whip up in just 15 minutes!
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Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Garlic Sesame Noodles, a dish that combines simplicity with richness. This quick and easy recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The combination of aromatic garlic and nutty sesame creates a sauce that clings beautifully to gluten-free brown rice noodles. Whether you serve them hot as a main course or chilled as a refreshing salad, these noodles are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 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 teaspoons sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Boil the noodles in a large pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press.
- In a pan, sauté minced garlic in neutral oil over medium heat until golden brown (avoid burning).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, veggie broth, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey/maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic and simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken.
- Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or other toppings like scallions before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
