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! Perfect for any occasion, these versatile noodles can be enjoyed hot or cold. With just a few simple ingredients, they come together in only 15 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or quick lunches. The rich flavors of garlic and sesame create a deliciously satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic and toasted sesame oil creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these noodles as a standalone meal or as a side dish at any gathering.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using brown rice noodles makes this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Simple Ingredients: With minimal ingredients required, it’s easy to whip up this dish anytime!

Tools and Preparation

To make the garlic sesame noodles, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process. These tools help achieve the perfect texture and flavor while making the preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the brown rice noodles evenly.
• Frying pan: Perfect for sautéing the garlic and combining it with the sauce for optimal flavor infusion.
• Garlic press: (if used) Ensures finely minced garlic, which adds depth to the dish without large chunks.

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 they are al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

1. Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press for finely minced pieces since we won’t be blending up this sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together all of the remaining sauce ingredients until there are no visible clumps of ginger and the tahini is well combined with other ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Noodles

1. Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic and mix well.
2. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

1. Once your pasta is cooked, drain it if needed and combine it with the sauce in the frying pan.
2. Toss everything together so that each noodle is coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish your dish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and crushed peanuts if desired.
2. Enjoy your flavorful garlic sesame noodles hot or cold!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a side dish, these noodles can fit the bill. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve warm for a comforting meal that’s quick and satisfying.
• Top with sliced grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.

Cold Noodle Salad

• Chill the noodles after cooking and toss them with fresh vegetables for a refreshing salad.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar and sesame seeds for extra flavor.

With Toppings

• Garnish with scallions, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds to add texture and flavor.
• Drizzle with extra toasted sesame oil for a richer taste.

Pairing with Protein

• Serve alongside grilled beef or lamb skewers to create a balanced meal.
• Incorporate tofu for a plant-based protein option that complements the dish well.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

Perfecting garlic sesame noodles is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to pre-minced options.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Adjust the amount of veggie broth based on how thick you prefer your sauce.
• Balance Flavors: Taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles; adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.
• Customize Spice Level: Add more sriracha if you prefer a spicier kick, making it perfect for heat lovers.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing side dishes with garlic sesame noodles can create an impressive meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients; drizzle with lemon juice for brightness.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides crunch and acidity.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness; toss in olive oil and herbs before baking.
4. Edamame: Steamed edamame is a protein-rich snack that pairs well; sprinkle with sea salt for flavor.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and depth; add seaweed and tofu for extra nutrition.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls filled with veggies provide a delightful contrast in texture; serve with dipping sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can make them mushy. Always refer to the package instructions for the best cooking time.
• Not Mincing Garlic Properly: If garlic isn’t minced finely enough, it may not blend well into the sauce. Use a garlic press or finely chop it to ensure even distribution.
• Skipping the Sauce Whisking: Failing to whisk the sauce ingredients thoroughly can lead to clumps of tahini or ginger. Take a moment to mix until smooth for a better flavor.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. Add scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts for both presentation and added flavor.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, it may be too thin. Aim for a slightly thickened consistency to coat the noodles effectively.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow noodles to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of veggie broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Sesame Noodles:

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute brown rice noodles with other gluten-free options like quinoa or soba noodles.

How spicy are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

The spiciness depends on how much sriracha you add. Adjust according to your taste preference.

How can I customize Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrients and color.

What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup works well as a vegan alternative if you prefer not to use honey.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also versatile enough for any meal! You can enjoy them hot or cold and customize them with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try and discover how delicious simple ingredients can be!