Cold sesame noodles are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: perfectly cooked, chewy noodles drizzled with a creamy, nutty sesame sauce that dances on your palate, while a sprinkle of scallions and crushed peanuts adds a delightful crunch. Each bite is an adventure, taking you straight to the bustling streets of your favorite Asian market, where the air is filled with tantalizing aromas and laughter. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
These noodles are more than just food; they’re a memory waiting to happen. I remember the first time I made cold sesame noodles for my friends during a summer potluck. The sun was shining, and as I set out my colorful spread, the noodles became the star of the show! They vanished faster than you can say “yum,” leaving behind nothing but happy faces and requests for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cold sesame noodles are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a symphony in every bite
- Their vibrant colors make for an eye-catching dish that’s sure to impress guests
- Plus, they can be served hot or cold, making them versatile for any occasion
I once served these cold sesame noodles at a picnic, and my friends’ reactions were priceless—they couldn’t believe something so delicious came from my kitchen!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Thick Noodles: I prefer using udon or soba noodles; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
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Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for that deep, nutty flavor that makes your sauce sing.
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Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds richness; look for natural varieties without added sugar.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce lets you control saltiness while enhancing flavor depth.
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Rice Vinegar: This adds tanginess; opt for unseasoned rice vinegar for best results.
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Scallions: Fresh scallions lend crunch and brightness; slice them thinly for an elegant touch.
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Crushed Peanuts: These provide texture; choose unsalted peanuts to keep things balanced.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic kick; avoid pre-minced versions if possible.
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Chili Paste (optional): For those who love heat, add chili paste to spice things up!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cold sesame noodles
First step: Start by cooking your noodles according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them well and rinse under cold water until chilled—this stops further cooking and keeps them chewy.
Mixing sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and a dash of chili paste if you want some zing! Ensure everything combines smoothly—no one likes clumpy sauce.
Combining flavors: Add your chilled noodles into the mixing bowl and toss gently until each strand is coated in that luscious sauce. You might want to use tongs here; trust me, it’s much easier!
Garnishing: Now comes the fun part! Toss in sliced scallions and crushed peanuts for that crunchy texture. Give it another gentle mix—don’t be too rough unless you enjoy noodle acrobatics!
Serving suggestion: Transfer your beautiful creation onto a serving platter or individual bowls. Drizzle with extra sesame oil or top with additional peanuts if you’re feeling fancy!
Enjoying: Serve immediately if you like some warmth or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving cold—it’s like waiting for a surprise party in your mouth!
Now you’ve turned simple ingredients into something magical—enjoy every bite of your cold sesame noodles!
You Must Know
- Cold sesame noodles are a delightful dish that offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures
- The nutty sesame sauce pairs beautifully with the chewy noodles, making every bite an experience
- Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the noodles until al dente, then rinse them under cold water. Whisk together the sauce ingredients while the noodles cool for an efficient workflow.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cold sesame noodles with veggies like cucumber or carrots. Adding protein like grilled chicken or tofu can elevate the dish further.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cold sesame noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They taste delicious cold but can also be gently reheated if preferred.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality sesame oil for maximum flavor; it makes a world of difference
- Be careful not to overcook the noodles; they should be firm yet flexible
- Tossing them with oil prevents sticking and enhances their texture
I remember the first time I made cold sesame noodles for a potluck; my friends couldn’t get enough and asked for the recipe immediately!
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free noodles for cold sesame noodles?
Yes, rice noodles or gluten-free pasta work beautifully in this recipe.
What can I add for extra crunch?
Chopped peanuts or toasted sesame seeds add a fantastic crunch to your dish.
How long do leftovers last?
Cold sesame noodles stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly.
Cold Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cold sesame noodles are a deliciously refreshing dish that balances chewy noodles with a rich, nutty sesame sauce. Perfect for warm weather or as a side at gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create an unforgettable flavor experience. With notes of garlic and a hint of spice, these noodles are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. udon or soba noodles
- 3 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 scallions, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup crushed unsalted peanuts
- Chili paste (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until chilled.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sesame oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and chili paste (if using) until smooth.
- Add the chilled noodles to the sauce and toss gently to coat all strands.
- Fold in sliced scallions and crushed peanuts for added crunch.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 505mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg