Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girls 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 eaten hot or cold. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, these noodles will satisfy your cravings while being incredibly simple to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it hot as a comforting meal or cold as a refreshing salad. Perfect for any occasion!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and sesame oil delivers an irresistible taste that will make your taste buds dance.
• Gluten-Free Option: Made with brown rice noodles, this recipe is friendly for those following gluten-free diets.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like garlic, tahini, and ginger, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking these Garlic Sesame Noodles, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or frying pan
• Garlic press or knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling water and cooking the noodles evenly.
• Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for sautéing garlic and mixing in the sauce.
• Garlic press or knife: Essential for finely mincing garlic to enhance its flavor in the dish.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for whisking together all sauce ingredients smoothly.

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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 for smaller pieces since we won’t be blending up this sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all of the remaining sauce ingredients until well combined with no visible clumps of ginger.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Pour the sauce into the skillet with sautéed garlic and mix well.
2. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Mix with Noodles

1. When the pasta is done cooking, drain it and combine it with the sauce in the skillet.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, crushed peanuts if desired, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer them warm or cold, these noodles pair well with various toppings and sides to enhance your meal experience.

Warm Noodle Bowl

• Top the noodles with scallions and crushed peanuts for added crunch.
• Drizzle extra sesame oil for a richer flavor.

Cold Noodle Salad

• Chill the noodles and toss them with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch.

Meal Prep Containers

• Portion the garlic sesame noodles into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Pair with sliced grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

Dinner Party Platter

• Serve the noodles on a large platter garnished with herbs and chili flakes.
• Provide chopsticks for a fun dining experience.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

Achieving the perfect garlic sesame noodles is easier than you think. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh garlic and good-quality soy sauce will enhance overall flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference; start small if you’re unsure.
• Cook noodles al dente: Ensure you follow package instructions closely to avoid overcooking the noodles.
• Sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of veggie broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, or lime juice for a flavor boost.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing side dishes with garlic sesame noodles can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Stir-Fried Vegetables
   Quick stir-fry seasonal veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots for added nutrients.

2. Crispy Tofu Bites
   Marinate cubes of tofu in soy sauce and bake until golden brown for a protein-rich side.

3. Asian Slaw
   A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and radishes tossed in a light vinaigrette complements the noodles beautifully.

4. Edamame Pods
   Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a nutritious finger food that pairs well with noodle dishes.

5. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup can balance out the flavors of your meal while providing warmth and comfort.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A simple salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar adds freshness to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people overlook some key aspects when making Garlic Sesame Noodles. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not Minced Properly: Failing to mince garlic finely can lead to uneven flavor. Use a garlic press or finely chop to ensure even distribution in the sauce.
• Overcooking Noodles: Cooking the noodles longer than recommended can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Skipping Sauce Mixing: Not whisking the sauce ingredients well can result in clumps. Take the time to mix until smooth for a better texture.
• Inadequate Simmering: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it may not thicken properly. Allow 2-3 minutes of simmering for optimal consistency.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Forgetting to garnish can diminish presentation and flavor. Use scallions, red pepper flakes, and crushed peanuts for added taste and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the noodles are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat. Stir until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Sesame Noodles.

What can I substitute for tahini in Garlic Sesame Noodles?

You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as a substitute if you don’t have tahini on hand.

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari along with brown rice noodles for a delicious gluten-free option.

How do I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.

Are Garlic Sesame Noodles suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and taste great cold or reheated, making them perfect for meal prep.

Can I add protein to Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Yes! Grilled chicken, beef strips, or cooked tofu make great additions to increase protein content.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them hot or cold and customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a go-to favorite!