Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are my ultimate favorite! They come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for a quick meal. With their delightful garlic flavor and nutty sesame notes, they can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them warm as a main course or chilled as a refreshing salad.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and sesame offers a rich, savory taste.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with brown rice noodles for a gluten-free alternative.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies!

Tools and Preparation

To create these flavorful Garlic Sesame Noodles, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and enhances your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Garlic press or knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Frying pan: Perfect for sautéing garlic to achieve that golden-brown flavor.
• Garlic press or knife: Ensures finely minced garlic for better sauce integration.

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

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 tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

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

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

1. Add the minced garlic to a frying pan with your choice of neutral oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut oil).
2. Sauté until the edges of the garlic are golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until no clumps of ginger remain and tahini is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Garlic

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

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

1. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the sauce mixture in the frying pan.
2. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, these noodles can adapt to your serving style.

As a Main Dish

• These noodles make a satisfying main course. Top them with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

In a Salad

• Serve the garlic sesame noodles cold as a refreshing salad. Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots for crunch.

With Toppings

• Sprinkle chopped scallions, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds on top before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

As a Side Dish

• Pair these noodles with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, like stir-fried vegetables or grilled fish, to create a complete meal.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To achieve the best garlic sesame noodles, consider these simple tips for a delightful dish every time.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor far better than pre-minced options.
• Adjust the sauce: Feel free to modify the soy sauce and sesame oil levels according to your taste preference.
• Cook noodles al dente: Follow package instructions closely to ensure your noodles hold their shape without becoming mushy.
• Add veggies: Incorporate steamed broccoli or snap peas into the dish for extra nutrition and color.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding chili flakes or fresh herbs like cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles pair well with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Stir-Fried Greens: Sautéed bok choy or spinach seasoned with garlic makes a healthy side.
2. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a crunchy contrast to the soft noodles.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup balances out the meal while adding depth to your dining experience.
4. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers marinated in soy sauce pair beautifully with the noodle’s flavors.
5. Teriyaki Tofu: Sweet and savory teriyaki tofu provides an excellent protein option that complements the noodles.
6. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds freshness and acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled carrots or radishes give an excellent contrast in flavor and texture.
8. Sesame Roasted Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower coated in sesame oil provides an earthy side that aligns well with garlic sesame noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong type of noodles: Not all noodles are created equal. Make sure to use brown rice noodles for a gluten-free option that complements the sauce well.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until golden brown to keep its flavor bright and fresh.
• Not measuring the sauce ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use precise measurements for soy sauce and vinegar for the best result.
• Skipping the simmering step: Skipping this step prevents the flavors from melding together. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly for a richer taste.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like scallions and crushed peanuts enhance both flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this important finishing touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow noodles to cool before sealing to maintain texture.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate servings with parchment paper if stacking.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of veggie broth or water and heat on medium until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Sesame Noodles that can help you enjoy this dish even more!

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

Yes, the recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just use maple syrup instead of honey if you prefer.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color!

How spicy are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

The spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of sriracha used in the recipe. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I use different types of noodles?

While brown rice noodles work best for this recipe, other gluten-free noodles or even whole wheat options can be used as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. This dish is perfect for any meal—hot or cold—so give it a try and enjoy a delightful bowl of goodness!