15 Minute Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe

If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, this 15-Minute Garlic Sesame Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting, this noodle dish is loaded with savory garlic, nutty sesame, and a touch of heat. These noodles are versatile, too—serve them as a main course, a side dish, or as a base to add veggies or protein. Let’s dive into how to create this quick, delicious recipe!

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Cook the Noodles: Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually around 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and set them aside. If you’re worried about them sticking, toss them with a light drizzle of sesame oil.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Sesame Sauce

1. Heat the Sesame Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Be careful not to overheat, as sesame oil has a low smoke point.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic brown too much as it can turn bitter.
3. Add Soy Sauce, Vinegar, and Sugar: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and the sauce becomes slightly thickened, around 1-2 minutes.
4. Add Heat (Optional): If you’re using sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes, add them now for a spicy kick.

Step 3: Toss the Noodles in the Sauce

1. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to toss the noodles and coat them evenly in the garlic sesame mixture.
2. Add Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle the sesame seeds into the noodles for added texture and nutty flavor.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the noodles and add more soy sauce or sriracha if you’d like a stronger flavor or more spice.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Toppings: Sprinkle sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and any additional sesame seeds over the noodles. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a bit more sesame oil on top.
2. Serve Hot: Transfer the noodles to serving bowls and enjoy immediately while they’re warm and fragrant.

Tips for the Best Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Choose the Right Noodle: Spaghetti is a great option, but for an authentic feel, try Asian noodles like ramen, soba, or udon.
• Avoid Overcooking: For the best texture, cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to soften when tossed in the sauce.
• Go Easy on the Sesame Oil: Sesame oil has a strong flavor; a little goes a long way.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste as you go, adjusting soy sauce, sugar, and sriracha to suit your preference for saltiness, sweetness, and spiciness.

Recipe Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the noodles more filling.
• Add Veggies: Toss in quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or shredded carrots for added crunch and color.
• Use Different Oils: Try a combination of sesame and olive oil if you prefer a milder sesame flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free noodles.

Conclusion

These 15-Minute Garlic Sesame Noodles are a fantastic option for a quick, flavorful meal that’s easy to customize. With a delicious balance of garlic, sesame, and soy, they’re sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Perfect on their own or as a base for extra veggies and protein, these noodles will make your weeknight dinners feel like a treat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simplicity and depth of flavors in every bite!

Yield: 3

15 Minute Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe

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If you're looking for a fast, flavorful meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, this 15-Minute Garlic Sesame Noodles recipe is exactly what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting, this noodle dish is loaded with savory garlic, nutty sesame, and a touch of heat. These noodles are versatile, too—serve them as a main course, a side dish, or as a base to add veggies or protein. Let’s dive into how to create this quick, delicious recipe!

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Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or noodles of choice
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste (optional, for spice)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro or additional green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
   
2. Make the Sauce:
   While the noodles are cooking, heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
   
3. Add Sauce Ingredients:
   Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar, and mix well. If using, add the sriracha or chili paste for a bit of heat.
   
4. Combine Noodles and Sauce:
   Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, tossing to combine.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh cilantro or more green onions if desired, and enjoy warm.

Notes

Add Protein: Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal.

Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to add color and crunch.