Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are undoubtedly my favorite noodle recipe to date! They require just a few ingredients, are gluten-free, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this dish combines rich flavors with delightful textures, making it an all-around winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy these noodles hot as a comforting main dish or cold as a refreshing salad.
• Flavor-Packed – The combination of garlic and sesame oil creates a deliciously rich flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Gluten-Free Goodness – Made with brown rice noodles, this recipe caters to gluten-free diets without compromising on taste.
• Simple Ingredients – With minimal ingredients required, you can whip up this dish anytime without a lengthy grocery list.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these Garlic Sesame Noodles requires minimal kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or frying pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk or fork
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for boiling the noodles to the perfect texture without sticking.
• Skillet or frying pan – Necessary for sautéing garlic and combining flavors seamlessly.
• Garlic press – A handy tool for mincing garlic quickly if you prefer not to chop by hand.

Ingredients

To make these mouthwatering Garlic Sesame Noodles, gather the following 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. Add the brown rice noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

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

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

1. In a skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until the edges turn golden brown, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

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

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic

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

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce

1. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious 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 hearty side, these noodles can adapt to your preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the garlic sesame noodles warm for a comforting meal. You can add grilled chicken or tofu on top for extra protein.

Cold Noodle Salad

• Chill the cooked noodles and toss them with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a refreshing cold dish. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds texture.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or basil to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Fresh herbs brighten up the taste significantly.

Topped with Nuts

• Add crushed peanuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast. Nuts provide additional nutrients and make your meal more satisfying.

Pair with Protein

• Combine the noodles with sautéed shrimp or turkey for a complete meal. The protein complements the flavors of the garlic sesame sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

Perfecting garlic sesame noodles is simple when you follow these helpful tips. With just a few adjustments, you can enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers better flavor compared to pre-minced options. This ensures that every bite is packed with garlicky goodness.

• Adjust the sauce: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or tahini levels based on your taste preference. A little more soy sauce can deepen the umami flavor.

• Don’t overcook the noodles: Follow package instructions carefully. Al dente noodles hold their texture better and soak up flavors without becoming mushy.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding roasted vegetables or chickpeas as toppings for variety. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds different textures.

• Serve immediately: For the best taste experience, serve the noodles right after mixing with the sauce. This prevents them from clumping together.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing your garlic sesame noodles with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried in sesame oil complements the flavors of the noodles beautifully.

2. Crispy Tofu Bites: Seasoned and pan-fried tofu provides a protein-rich option that pairs well with garlic sesame noodles.

3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds adds crunch and brightness to your meal.

4. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame pods offer a nutritious snack that balances out the richness of the noodles.

5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting starter that perfectly accompanies Asian noodle dishes.

6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and served with peanut dipping sauce make an excellent finger food alongside your main dish.

7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory noodle flavors.

8. Seaweed Salad: This light salad offers oceanic flavors and complements the taste of garlic while adding an interesting texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles longer than the package instructions can lead to a mushy texture. Always taste them a minute before the suggested time to achieve perfect al dente.
• Neglecting the garlic: Burning the garlic can make it bitter. Sauté it on low heat until just golden to preserve its flavor.
• Skipping the sauce whisking: Failing to thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients can result in uneven flavor. Whisk until smooth for a balanced taste throughout the noodles.
• Using too much soy sauce: Adding excessive soy sauce can overpower your dish with saltiness. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your preference.
• Not garnishing: Serving without garnishes might make your dish less appealing. Add scallions or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Garlic Sesame Noodles can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• These noodles freeze well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of veggie broth to prevent sticking, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a quick and tasty dish made with brown rice noodles tossed in a savory garlic sauce featuring sesame oil and other flavorful ingredients.

Can I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, or protein sources such as chicken or tofu for extra nutrition.

Are Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?

Yes, when you use brown rice noodles and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free, these noodles are safe for those avoiding gluten.

How do I store leftover Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not just quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making them suitable for various tastes. Don’t hesitate; give this delightful recipe a try!