There’s something deeply satisfying about slurping up a plate of perfectly chilled, nutty, and flavor-packed cold sesame noodles. The vibrant colors, the contrasting textures, and the harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy notes make this dish an absolute delight for the senses. Whether you’re craving a refreshing summer meal or seeking a comforting yet light main course, this classic cold sesame noodle recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
What sets this cold sesame noodle recipe apart is the careful balance of flavors and the attention to detail that goes into each step. From the perfectly cooked noodles to the rich and creamy sesame sauce, every element comes together seamlessly to create a truly exceptional dining experience. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality dish that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.
Brace yourself, because once you try these cold sesame noodles, you’ll be hooked!
What Makes This Recipe So Hard to Resist ?
The secret to the irresistible appeal of this cold sesame noodle recipe lies in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The nutty, creamy sesame sauce coats the perfectly al dente noodles, creating a delightful contrast with the crunchy vegetables and the bright, tangy notes of the dressing. The combination of sesame, soy, and rice vinegar creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe so hard to resist – the ease of preparation is another major draw. With minimal cooking required and the ability to prepare the components in advance, this cold sesame noodle dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and healthy main course or a satisfying side dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded carrots
• 1 cup (100g) thinly sliced cucumber
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
The key ingredient in this recipe is the creamy peanut butter, which adds a rich, nutty flavor and a luxurious mouthfeel to the sesame sauce. The soy sauce provides depth and umami, while the rice vinegar and honey balance the flavors with a touch of acidity and sweetness. The toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes (if using) add a delightful crunch and a subtle heat that elevates the overall dish.
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking and remove any excess starch. This will ensure the noodles have a tender yet firm texture that won’t become mushy in the cold sesame sauce.
- Make the Sesame Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame seeds, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The key is to use room-temperature or slightly warmed peanut butter to ensure a lump-free consistency.
- Toss the Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the sesame sauce and use tongs or two forks to gently toss the noodles until they are evenly coated. The sauce should cling to the noodles, creating a delicious, velvety coating.
- Fold in the Vegetables: Gently fold in the shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and green onions until they are evenly distributed throughout the noodles. The contrast of the crunchy vegetables with the slick, saucy noodles is what makes this dish so satisfying.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl of noodles and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the noodles to fully chill. When ready to serve, transfer the cold sesame noodles to a serving bowl or plate, and garnish with the additional 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 4 servings.
• Protein: 10 g
• Sodium: 643 mg
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
Turn This Base Recipe Into Many Different Meals
• To Make it Vegan: Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a plant-based peanut butter or almond butter in place of the regular peanut butter.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon, or add a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the sesame sauce.
Serving This Recipe for Any Occasion
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the noodles with fresh cilantro, sliced scallions, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Beverage Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced green tea or jasmine tea.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: It’s important to use room-temperature or slightly warmed peanut butter to ensure a smooth, lump-free sesame sauce. Cold ingredients can cause the sauce to become thick and clumpy, which will affect the overall texture of the dish.
• Mistake 3 – Not Chilling the Noodles Properly: Allowing the noodles to chill for at least 30 minutes is crucial for developing the perfect texture and flavor. If the noodles are not chilled long enough, the sauce won’t fully coat and cling to the noodles, resulting in a less cohesive and satisfying dish.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftovers
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, transfer the noodles to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat the cold sesame noodles, place them in a saucepan or skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the noodles soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle besides spaghetti or linguine?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine noodles are the traditional choice, you can use a variety of other noodles for this recipe, such as udon, ramen, or even rice noodles. The key is to ensure the noodles are cooked al dente so they can hold up to the cold sesame sauce. Adjust the cooking time as needed for the type of noodle you choose.
How can I make this dish more protein-packed?
To add more protein to this cold sesame noodle recipe, you can toss in grilled or sautéed shrimp, chicken, or tofu. Simply cook the protein separately and then gently fold it into the noodles after tossing them in the sesame sauce. You can also top the dish with a soft-boiled egg or sliced avocado for an extra boost of nutrients.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sesame sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble the dish, simply toss the cooked noodles with the chilled sauce and the fresh vegetables. This makes for an even quicker assembly process when you’re ready to serve.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the cold sesame noodles spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce, or add a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot sauce, such as sriracha or chili-garlic sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting the spice level to your desired preference.
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Natural peanut butter will work great in this recipe, but you may need to add a bit more to achieve the desired creamy consistency in the sauce. Start with 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter and adjust the amount as needed to reach your preferred texture.
Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
With its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures, this classic cold sesame noodle recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Serve it as a light and refreshing main course, or offer it as a unique and flavorful side dish at your next gathering. No matter how you enjoy it, these cold sesame noodles are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Bon appétit!
🍜 Classic Quick Cold Sesame Noodles
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking and remove any excess starch. This will ensure the noodles have a tender yet firm texture that won't become mushy in the cold sesame sauce.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame seeds, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The key is to use room-temperature or slightly warmed peanut butter to ensure a lump-free consistency.
- Add the cooked noodles to the sesame sauce and use tongs or two forks to gently toss the noodles until they are evenly coated. The sauce should cling to the noodles, creating a delicious, velvety coating.
- Gently fold in the shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and green onions until they are evenly distributed throughout the noodles. The contrast of the crunchy vegetables with the slick, saucy noodles is what makes this dish so satisfying.
- Cover the bowl of noodles and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and the noodles to fully chill. When ready to serve, transfer the cold sesame noodles to a serving bowl or plate, and garnish with the additional 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds.
