Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are without a doubt my favorite noodle recipe to date! They require just a few ingredients, are gluten-free, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a delicious meal prep option, these noodles fit the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic and sesame oil creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy them warm or cold; they work as a main dish or side.
• Gluten-Free: Made with brown rice noodles for a healthy twist.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the noodles evenly and ensuring they cook perfectly.
• Pan: Essential for sautéing garlic and mixing the sauce well without burning.
• Whisk: Helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly without clumps.
• Garlic press (optional): Makes mincing garlic quick and easy if you prefer not to chop by hand.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this delightful Garlic Sesame Noodles recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Noodles

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles

For the Sauce

• 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: Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

1. Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to achieve a fine consistency.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

1. Heat your chosen oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pan.
3. Sauté until the edges of the garlic turn golden brown, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture into the pan with sautéed garlic.
3. Mix well and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them directly into the pan with the sauce.
2. Toss everything together until well coated.
3. Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously simple Garlic Sesame Noodles!

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 side, these noodles pair well with many flavors and textures.

As a Main Dish

• Serve hot for a comforting meal.
• Top with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra freshness.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill the noodles and toss them with crisp veggies for a refreshing salad.
• Add diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Drizzle with extra sesame oil before serving for enhanced flavor.

With Toppings

• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Include crushed peanuts to introduce texture and nuttiness.
• Use sliced scallions to provide a pop of color and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To achieve the best Garlic Sesame Noodles, follow these simple tips that enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic elevates the overall taste compared to pre-minced options.
• Monitor cooking time: Be cautious not to overcook the noodles; they should be tender yet firm (al dente).
• Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of veggie broth to loosen it up.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like crushed red pepper or toasted sesame seeds to customize your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing Garlic Sesame Noodles with complementary side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cook colorful vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli in sesame oil for crunch.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds freshness and balances flavors.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame provides protein and is easy to prepare — just sprinkle with sea salt!
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, these can be a hearty addition that contrasts nicely with noodles.
5. Seaweed Salad: This tangy, umami-rich side dish offers an oceanic flavor that pairs perfectly with Asian noodles.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the richness of the sesame sauce beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Sesame Noodles is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong noodle type: Always choose brown rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Regular wheat noodles won’t provide the same texture or flavor.
• Overcooking the garlic: If you let the garlic burn, it will taste bitter. Saute just until golden brown to enhance its flavor.
• Not whisking the sauce well: Make sure to whisk all sauce ingredients thoroughly. Lumps can form from the tahini or ginger, affecting the sauce’s consistency.
• Ignoring the garnishes: Garnishes like scallions and crushed peanuts add crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this step for a complete dish!
• Forgetting to adjust flavors: Taste your sauce before mixing it with noodles. You may want to add more soy sauce or sriracha based on your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Let the noodles cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a pan, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep them from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Garlic Sesame Noodles that can help clarify any doubts.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, while brown rice noodles are recommended for gluten-free options, you can try other types like soba or whole wheat noodles if preferred.

How do I make Garlic Sesame Noodles spicier?

To increase spice levels, add more sriracha or include red pepper flakes as garnishes. Adjust according to your taste.

Are Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based when using maple syrup instead of honey and avoiding animal-derived products.

How can I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Garlic Sesame Noodles?

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

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are quick, easy, and full of flavor. This versatile dish can be enjoyed hot or cold and customized with various veggies and proteins. Don’t hesitate to try it and make it your own!