Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a delicious and versatile dish that combines the nutty flavors of sesame with the bold punch of garlic. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying side for larger meals. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course, a side dish, or a flavorful addition to a potluck, these noodles are sure to impress.

The beauty of Garlic Sesame Noodles lies in their simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles. The addition of vegetables or proteins can turn this dish into a complete meal, providing an array of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Sesame Noodles

1. Quick and Easy:
   This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinners.
2. Versatile:
   You can customize it with your choice of vegetables, proteins, or even different types of noodles to suit your taste.
3. Flavorful:
   The combination of garlic and sesame creates a deliciously rich flavor that elevates simple noodles to a whole new level.
4. Healthy:
   This dish can be easily adapted to be vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb, depending on your dietary preferences.
5. Great for Meal Prep:
   Garlic Sesame Noodles store well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or reheated, making them a perfect meal prep option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

1. Boil Water:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add Noodles:
   Once the water is boiling, add your choice of noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve Pasta Water:
   Before draining the noodles, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to emulsify the sauce later.
4. Drain Noodles:
   Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Sesame Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic:
   In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned. Stir constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
2. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, remaining sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Add Sauce to Skillet:
   Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through.

Step 3: Combine Noodles and Sauce

1. Add Noodles to Skillet:
   Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the garlic sesame sauce. Toss the noodles to coat them evenly in the sauce.
2. Add Reserved Pasta Water:
   Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water (start with about 1/4 cup) to the skillet, tossing the noodles to help the sauce adhere. The starchy water will help to create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Add more water as needed until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Add-ins

1. Add Vegetables or Proteins (Optional):
   If you’re adding vegetables or proteins, incorporate them into the skillet now. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender and the proteins are heated through.

Step 5: Serve the Garlic Sesame Noodles

1. Plate the Noodles:
   Transfer the garlic sesame noodles to serving bowls.
2. Garnish:
   Top with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.
3. Enjoy:
   Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles!

Tips for Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

1. Use Fresh Garlic:
   Fresh garlic is essential for achieving the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, as it can lose its potency.
2. Control the Sauce Consistency:
   Adjust the amount of reserved pasta water you add to achieve your preferred sauce consistency. A little water goes a long way!
3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles:
   Cook the noodles until they are just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce.
4. Customize to Your Taste:
   Feel free to modify the recipe by adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor or more honey for sweetness.
5. Make it Ahead of Time:
   Garlic Sesame Noodles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Sesame Noodles are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

1. As a Main Course:
   Serve the noodles as a standalone dish, perhaps with a side of steamed broccoli or a light salad.
2. As a Side Dish:
   Pair the noodles with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or stir-fried vegetables to create a balanced meal.
3. With a Protein:
   Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the noodles to make a more filling dish. Cook the protein separately and toss it in just before serving.
4. Cold Noodle Salad:
   Allow the Garlic Sesame Noodles to cool and serve them cold as a refreshing salad. Top with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and a drizzle of extra sesame oil.
5. Topped with Egg:
   For an extra layer of flavor, top your noodles with a soft-boiled or fried egg. The runny yolk adds richness to the dish.

Variations of Garlic Sesame Noodles

One of the best aspects of Garlic Sesame Noodles is their adaptability. Here are some variations you might consider:

1. Spicy Garlic Sesame Noodles:
   Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
2. Vegetarian Version:
   Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and adding a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
   Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Peanut Garlic Noodles:
   Add 2-3 tablespoons of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty flavor. This version pairs well with grilled chicken or tofu.
5. Coconut Garlic Noodles:
   Substitute half of the soy sauce with coconut aminos and add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Nutritional Information

Here is a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving of Garlic Sesame Noodles (without add-ins):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

Conclusion

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. With a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether enjoyed as a main course, side dish, or salad, these noodles are versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Feel free to experiment with the recipe to make it your own, whether by adding proteins, vegetables, or adjusting the flavors to suit your palate. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing Garlic Sesame Noodles to your liking. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness!

Yield: 4

Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe

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Garlic Sesame Noodles are a delicious and versatile dish that combines the nutty flavors of sesame with the bold punch of garlic. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying side for larger meals. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course, a side dish, or a flavorful addition to a potluck, these noodles are sure to impress.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or any noodles of your choice
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti (or your choice of noodles) and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and grated ginger (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

3. Combine Noodles and Sauce:

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the garlic sesame sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

4. Serve:

Remove from heat and transfer the noodles to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a more nutritious dish.
• For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• These noodles can be enjoyed hot or cold, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers.