Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these Garlic Sesame Noodles are my absolute favorite! With just a handful of ingredients, they are gluten-free, ready in only 15 minutes, and can be served hot or cold. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or even as a party dish, this noodle recipe is a showstopper that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these noodles hot straight from the pan or chilled as a refreshing salad.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and sriracha creates a deliciously rich taste that will delight your palate.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with gluten-free brown rice noodles and wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make this dish even more filling and suited to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Garlic Sesame Noodles, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the noodles evenly without overcrowding them.
• Frying pan: Ideal for sautéing garlic and combining the sauce ingredients seamlessly.
• Garlic press: Helps achieve finely minced garlic quickly for better flavor infusion in your sauce.

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 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. Cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely. You can also use a garlic press to achieve small pieces since we won’t be blending up this sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to a frying pan along with the neutral oil (like avocado or olive oil). 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 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: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Once cooked, drain the pasta. Add it directly into the frying pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 7: Serve with Garnish

Garnish your Garlic Sesame Noodles with fresh parsley before serving. Optionally, top with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts for an extra flavor boost!

Enjoy these flavorful noodles as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether as a main dish or a side, these noodles can elevate any meal with their rich flavors. Here are some suggestions for serving them up.

As a Cold Noodle Salad

• Toss the garlic sesame noodles with fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers for a refreshing salad.
• Add some sliced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrition.

With Protein Add-Ons

• Serve the noodles topped with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
• Shrimp or tempeh are also great options to boost the protein content.

Garnished to Perfection

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top for added texture.
• A drizzle of extra sriracha can spice things up if you prefer heat.

In a Wrap

• Use the garlic sesame noodles as a filling in lettuce wraps along with shredded carrots and bell peppers.
• Pair with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and lime juice.

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 adds more flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the soy sauce and honey/maple syrup ratio according to your taste preferences for sweetness and saltiness.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: This ensures the noodles maintain their bite and don’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Crunchy Toppings: Include crushed peanuts or fried shallots for an exciting crunch that complements the soft noodles.
• Experiment with Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like snap peas or bok choy to add color and nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing garlic sesame noodles with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that go well with these flavorful noodles.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that pairs well with the noodles’ texture.
2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and umami flavors, making it a comforting companion.
3. Cucumber Salad: A quick, tangy cucumber salad refreshes your palate and balances the rich flavors of the noodles.
4. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
5. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices complement the nuttiness of the sesame oil in the dish.
6. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide protein and make for a fun finger food alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your noodles turn out perfectly.

• Overcooking the Noodles: Noodles can become mushy if cooked too long. Always follow the package instructions and taste them a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.

• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale garlic can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always use fresh garlic for the best taste in your Garlic Sesame Noodles.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Eyeballing ingredients, especially soy sauce or sesame oil, can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

• Skipping the Sauce Simmer: Not allowing the sauce to simmer may result in a watery texture. Simmer it for at least 2-3 minutes to thicken and enhance flavors.

• Using Cold Noodles: Serving cold noodles straight from the fridge without reheating can dull their flavor. A quick toss in a pan can revive their taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 2 months when frozen.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

• Stovetop: Add noodles to a pan over medium heat with a bit of oil or broth. Toss until heated evenly, about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of noodles for Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Yes! While brown rice noodles are gluten-free, you can substitute with regular wheat noodles or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Is this Garlic Sesame Noodles recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based ingredients like tahini and maple syrup instead of honey.

How spicy are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The sriracha adds heat, but you can reduce or omit it if you prefer milder flavors.

What can I add to customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Tofu or edamame also works well for added protein!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy to prepare but also deliciously versatile. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, they make an excellent meal option any time of day. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!

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Garlic Sesame Noodles

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Garlic Sesame Noodles are the ultimate quick and delicious dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this gluten-free recipe features brown rice noodles tossed in a rich sauce made from garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of sriracha for an extra kick. With just a handful of ingredients, this flavorful dish comes together in only 15 minutes! Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a satisfying and nutritious meal that will impress friends and family alike. Whether served as a main course or a side, these Garlic Sesame Noodles are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons sriracha
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice noodles in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Mince the garlic finely using a knife or garlic press.
3. Sauté the minced garlic in a frying pan with neutral oil until golden brown.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, veggie broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey/maple syrup, sriracha, and ginger until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce into the frying pan with sautéed garlic and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and optional toppings like scallions or crushed peanuts.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added protein, top with grilled chicken or tofu. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Adjust sriracha based on your preferred spice level.