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, they are gluten-free and can be ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick lunch, these noodles can be enjoyed hot or cold. The rich flavors of garlic and sesame make this dish a standout that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it as a side. These noodles pair well with various proteins and veggies.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Healthy option: Gluten-free and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha or switch up the veggies to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic Sesame Noodles, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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: Used for sautéing garlic and combining the sauce with noodles, ensuring perfect flavor distribution.
• Whisk: Helps mix the sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps for a better consistency.

Ingredients

For these flavorful Garlic Sesame Noodles, you’ll need:

• 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

How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the brown rice noodles according to the package instructions until they reach the desired texture. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to get it super small. This is important since we won’t be blending up this 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, releasing that lovely aroma.

Step 4: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients.
* Ensure there are no visible clumps of ginger and that the tahini is well integrated.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan where you sautéed the garlic.
* Mix well to combine all flavors together.

Step 6: Simmer Sauce

Let the sauce simmer for about 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Combine Noodles with Sauce

Once your noodles are cooked, add them directly into the pan with the sauce.
* Toss everything together until all noodles are coated evenly in that flavorful garlic sesame goodness.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Garlic Sesame Noodles with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts as desired. Enjoy!

With this simple guide, you’ll whip up delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles that can easily become a staple in your kitchen!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a side, these noodles are a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Dish

• Serve hot or cold for a quick meal.
• Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Top with sautéed or raw veggies like bell peppers and carrots for a crunchy texture.
• Add edamame or snap peas for extra nutrition.

As a Salad

• Toss with mixed greens for a refreshing salad option.
• Drizzle with additional sesame oil and rice vinegar for an extra zing.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Use toasted almonds as a nutty alternative.

With a Side of Protein

• Enjoy alongside baked salmon or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Pair with chickpeas for a vegetarian boost.

In a Wrap

• Roll the noodles in lettuce leaves with sliced cucumbers and hoisin sauce.
• Create an Asian-inspired wrap that’s easy to eat on the go.

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How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

Perfecting garlic sesame noodles is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use fresh garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings out the best flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Adjust sauce thickness – For thicker sauce, simmer longer; for thinner, add more veggie broth gradually.
• Experiment with oils – Different oils like peanut or sesame can change the flavor profile significantly.
• Add more spice – If you enjoy heat, increase the sriracha according to your taste preference.
• Garnish creatively – Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or green onions to elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.
• Store leftovers properly – Keep any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal:

1. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy side that adds color and nutrients; simply steam until tender.
2. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing mix of sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds provides crunch.
3. Miso Soup – Warm miso soup adds depth and umami flavors that go well with the noodles.
4. Grilled Veggies – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled to perfection make a great addition.
5. Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies create a light, crunchy contrast to the noodles.
6. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame serves as a protein-rich snack that pairs well with Asian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking garlic sesame noodles can be quick and easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Noodles: Noodles should be cooked al dente. Follow package instructions carefully and taste-test them to avoid mushiness.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly; sauté it just until golden brown. If it burns, it will taste bitter, ruining your dish.
• Skipping Ingredient Measurements: While cooking can be flexible, for this recipe, precise measurements ensure the flavors balance perfectly. Use measuring spoons and cups.
• Not Whisking the Sauce Properly: Make sure to whisk all sauce ingredients thoroughly to prevent clumps of tahini or ginger. A smooth sauce enhances the noodle experience.
• Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Choose low sodium soy sauce or tamari for a healthier option. This helps control saltiness in your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow noodles to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place noodles in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a pan, add a splash of water or broth and heat noodles over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about garlic sesame noodles that might help you enjoy this dish even more!

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep this dish entirely gluten-free while enjoying its delightful flavors.

What can I add to Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to customize with veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or edamame. You can also add protein such as tofu or chicken for a heartier meal.

How long do Garlic Sesame Noodles last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they will last up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them.

Can I serve Garlic Sesame Noodles cold?

Absolutely! These noodles taste great cold and make an excellent dish for meal prep or summer gatherings.

What are some variations of Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Try adding different sauces such as peanut sauce or chili oil, or mix in fresh herbs like cilantro for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic sesame noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them based on what you have on hand, making them perfect for any meal occasion. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, these noodles are sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and ingredients!