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, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish packs a flavorful punch that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these noodles hot as a comforting meal or cold as a refreshing salad.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a rich and delicious flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with brown rice noodles, this dish caters to gluten-sensitive individuals without sacrificing taste.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious ingredients like garlic and tahini, these noodles make for a wholesome meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Garlic Sesame Noodles a breeze. Here’s what you need to get started.

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.
• Pan: Used for sautéing garlic and combining the sauce.
• Garlic press: Helps achieve finely minced garlic quickly for better flavor infusion.
• Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients blend smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles
• 1 tablespoon oil

For the Sauce

• 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: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to ensure it’s small enough 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 (like avocado or olive). Sauté until the edges of the garlic look 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 incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Garlic

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic. Mix well and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Mix with Noodles

Once the pasta is done cooking, drain it if necessary and combine it with the sauce in the pan. Toss well to coat all noodles evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

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

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a delightful side, here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped cilantro or basil for an aromatic touch.
• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to make it a heartier meal.

Cold Pasta Salad

• Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the noodles and serve them cold as a refreshing pasta salad.
• Mix in Veggies: Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots for extra crunch.

With Additional Sauces

• Drizzle with Extra Sauce: Offer soy sauce or sriracha on the side for those who like more flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and taste.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To achieve the best garlic sesame noodles, consider these tips that will elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor compared to jarred options.
• Control the Heat: Sauté garlic on low heat to avoid burning; burnt garlic can taste bitter.
• Balance the Flavors: Adjust soy sauce and honey/maple syrup according to your taste preference for sweetness and saltiness.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Follow package instructions but aim for al dente to maintain a good texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Incorporate vegetables like bok choy or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pair your garlic sesame noodles with these delicious side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and is rich in nutrients.
2. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a nice contrast in texture.
3. Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans are perfect for snacking alongside your noodles.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup enhances the overall Asian dining experience.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness to the meal.
6. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies offer a delightful crispness that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong noodles: Always use brown rice noodles for this recipe. Other types may alter the dish’s texture and flavor significantly.

• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Keep an eye on it while sautéing; it should be golden, not brown.

• Not measuring sauce ingredients: Be precise with your ingredients, especially soy sauce and tahini. Too much can overpower the dish.

• Skipping garnishes: Garnishes like scallions and crushed peanuts add flavor and texture. Don’t skip them for the full experience!

• Ignoring sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer until it thickens. A good sauce should cling to your noodles.

• Serving without tasting: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust flavors as needed for a balanced taste.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They 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 and heat for about 10 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a pan over medium heat. Stir until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.

How do I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or protein such as tofu or chicken, according to your preference.

What should I serve with Garlic Sesame Noodles?

These noodles pair well with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare Garlic Sesame Noodles?

The total time is just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy them hot or cold. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added nutrition and flavor! Give this delicious recipe a try today!