Description
Cold Sesame Noodles are a refreshing and flavorful Asian-inspired dish combining perfectly cooked noodles with a creamy, tangy peanut sauce. This recipe features noodles tossed in a blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and aromatic ginger and garlic, complemented by crunchy vegetables and garnished with toasted sesame seeds. Perfect as a light main course or side dish, served chilled or at room temperature, and easily customizable with proteins or extra veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles
- 12 ounces spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles
Sesame Sauce
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter or tahini
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber or bell pepper
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, chili oil, fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to the package instructions, cooking them until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and rinse under cold running water until they are completely cool to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Make the sesame sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter (or tahini), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of warm water. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and well combined, adding additional warm water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Toss noodles with sauce and vegetables: Add the cooled noodles to the sauce and toss well to ensure every strand is evenly coated. Gently stir in the shredded carrots, sliced cucumber or bell pepper, and thinly sliced green onions for a refreshing crunch and vibrant color.
- Chill and serve: Place the bowl of noodles in the refrigerator and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and any optional toppings such as chopped peanuts, chili oil, or fresh cilantro. Serve cold or at room temperature for a perfect light meal or side dish.
Notes
- This dish is excellent for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Customize with proteins such as tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp to make it more hearty.
- For additional spice, add chili crisp, sriracha, or chili oil to the sauce or as a topping.
- Using maple syrup instead of honey makes this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Rinsing the noodles well after cooking is crucial to prevent them from becoming mushy and to cool them rapidly.
