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! They require just a few ingredients, are gluten-free, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Perfect for any occasion, this dish offers a delightful mix of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these noodles hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing salad.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and sriracha creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with brown rice noodles and wholesome sauces, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein to tailor the recipe to your tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience seamless. Here’s what you’ll need to create perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling water and cooking the noodles evenly.
• Pan: Needed for sautéing garlic and mixing the sauce for maximum flavor.
• Garlic press: Helps in mincing garlic quickly for those who want fast prep time.
• Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients blend smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 12 ounces brown rice noodles

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 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 teaspoon sriracha
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the brown rice noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to achieve a super small consistency. This step is crucial since we won’t be blending this sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to a pan with your choice of neutral oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut).
– Sauté until the edges of the garlic look golden brown, ensuring you do not burn it.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients. Ensure there are no visible clumps of ginger and that the tahini is evenly spread throughout.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic.
– Mix well and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

When the pasta is done cooking, drain it and combine it with the garlic sauce in the pan. Stir thoroughly until all noodles are coated.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, crushed peanuts, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a side, here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the noodles warm for a comforting meal.
• Top with grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.
• Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and bok choy for a healthy twist.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill the noodles and toss with fresh veggies for a refreshing salad.
• Drizzle additional sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for flavor.
• Pair with a light dressing of rice vinegar and honey for sweetness.

With Toppings

• Garnish with chopped scallions for freshness.
• Sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To achieve the best garlic sesame noodles, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose the right noodles: Opt for brown rice noodles for a gluten-free option that complements the sauce perfectly.
• Mince garlic finely: This helps release maximum flavor without overwhelming the dish with large chunks.
• Control the sauce consistency: Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly to cling better to the noodles.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite crunchy toppings like nuts or seeds.
• Adjust flavors: Taste the sauce before combining with the noodles; adjust soy sauce or vinegar based on your preference.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy them fresh after cooking for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing garlic sesame noodles with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overshadowing the noodle’s flavors.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad brings a crisp contrast to the warm, savory noodles.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame pods are an excellent protein-rich snack that pairs well with Asian flavors.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start to your meal, balancing out the noodle dish beautifully.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthiness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the rich flavors of garlic sesame noodles perfectly.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls offer a light, crispy bite that contrasts nicely with soft noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Sesame Noodles, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality soy sauce or sesame oil can ruin the flavor. Always opt for high-quality brands for a rich taste.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Aim for al dente for better texture.
• Neglecting Garlic Preparation: Failing to mince garlic finely can lead to uneven flavor. Use a garlic press or mince thoroughly for a balanced taste.
• Skipping Sauce Mixing: Not mixing the sauce ingredients properly can leave clumps of tahini or ginger. Whisk well until smooth before adding to the pan.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions or crushed peanuts can make the dish less appealing. These add flavor and texture, so don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and heat on low, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about Garlic Sesame Noodles, we’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions.

What are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Garlic Sesame Noodles are a quick and flavorful noodle dish made with garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce, perfect for any meal.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free or whole grain noodles as long as they match cooking times.

How can I customize Garlic Sesame Noodles?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, proteins such as chicken or tofu, or adjust spice levels with more sriracha.

Are Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

Yes! This recipe is completely plant-based and perfect for vegans looking for a delicious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize them by adding veggies or proteins according to your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!