Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these Garlic Sesame Noodles are my absolute favorite! With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is not only gluten-free but also ready in just 15 minutes. Whether served hot or cold, they make for a perfect meal any time of the day. Their blend of flavors and textures makes them ideal for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or even potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a rich and savory taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile: Enjoy these noodles hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing salad. They adapt to your preference!
• Healthy Option: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe fits into various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan.
• Minimal Ingredients: Using only essential pantry staples means fewer trips to the grocery store!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools for an efficient experience. The right equipment helps ensure everything goes smoothly!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Pan
• Garlic press or knife
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Pan: A non-stick pan ensures that the garlic sauté without burning.
• Garlic press: Saves time by finely mincing garlic quickly.
• Whisk: Helps combine the sauce ingredients smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 6 cloves garlic

For the Sauce

• 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 brown rice noodles according to package instructions until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press for an even texture. This step is crucial 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 turn golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until there are no visible clumps of ginger and tahini is well blended.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic. Mix well to combine.

Step 6: Simmer

Let the sauce simmer for about 2–3 minutes or until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Mix Noodles with Sauce

Once your pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly into the pan with the sauce. Toss well to coat all noodles evenly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your garlic sesame noodles with scallions, red pepper flakes, crushed peanuts, or any toppings you prefer. Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these noodles can fit the bill. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

As a Main Dish

• Serve hot or cold for a refreshing meal.
• Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch.
• Toss in shredded carrots or cucumber ribbons for a colorful presentation.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top for a delightful texture.
• Add chopped scallions to enhance the flavor profile.

In a Salad

• Mix with fresh greens and your favorite salad dressing.
• Serve as a cold noodle salad at summer picnics.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To make your garlic sesame noodles truly shine, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor and aroma.
• Balance flavors: Adjust soy sauce and honey to achieve the perfect sweet and savory balance.
• Cook noodles al dente: This helps them hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding cilantro, lime juice, or chili flakes for different flavor profiles.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing garlic sesame noodles with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods seasoned with sea salt make a perfect finger food.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami flavor alongside your noodles.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots brings freshness and texture.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Light and crisp spring rolls filled with veggies complement the rich flavors of the noodles.
5. Tofu Stir-Fry: A mix of sautéed vegetables and tofu makes for a satisfying vegetarian side.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar balances out the richness of the noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Garlic Sesame Noodles from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles for too long can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions for timing and test for doneness a minute early.
• Not mincing the garlic enough: If the garlic pieces are too large, they won’t infuse their flavor into the sauce properly. Use a garlic press or chop finely to ensure maximum flavor.
• Skipping the simmering step: Failing to simmer the sauce can result in a runny texture. Take the time to let it thicken slightly for a better consistency.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: Using regular soy sauce can overpower the dish with saltiness. Opt for low sodium soy sauce or tamari for a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions and crushed peanuts can make the dish less visually appealing and flavorful. Don’t skip these finishing touches!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a bit of oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute other types of noodles in Garlic Sesame Noodles?

You can use any type of noodle you prefer! Rice noodles, soba noodles, or even whole wheat spaghetti work well.

How can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses maple syrup instead of honey. Enjoy it without any modifications!

What toppings work best with Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Popular toppings include sliced scallions, crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or red pepper flakes for extra spice.

How do I adjust the spiciness in my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

To control spice levels, adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preference or omit it entirely if you prefer mild flavors.

Can I meal prep Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Absolutely! These noodles are great for meal prep as they store well and taste delicious cold or reheated.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them hot or cold and customize them with various vegetables or proteins. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dish; its simplicity and flavor will surely win you over!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Garlic Sesame Noodles

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a quick and delicious meal that combines the rich flavors of garlic and sesame oil with tender brown rice noodles. Ready in just 15 minutes, this gluten-free dish is perfect for busy weeknights, lunch prep, or potlucks. The savory sauce, made from pantry staples like low-sodium soy sauce and tahini, coats the noodles beautifully, creating a satisfying and wholesome dish. Whether served hot or cold, these versatile noodles can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins for an extra boost. Enjoy them as a hearty main course or toss them into a refreshing salad. With their incredible flavor and ease of preparation, Garlic Sesame Noodles are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

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Ingredients

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• 12 ounces brown rice noodles
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1/4–1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons veggie broth
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• Optional garnishes: crushed peanuts, scallions

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Instructions

1. Boil the brown rice noodles in a large pot according to package instructions until tender.
2. Mince the garlic finely using a knife or garlic press.
3. In a pan, sauté the minced garlic in oil until golden brown.
4. Whisk together soy sauce, veggie broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger in a mixing bowl.
5. Pour the sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic and simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the pan with the sauce; toss well to coat.
7. Serve immediately garnished with your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg