Garlic Sesame Noodles

Noodles are a girls best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are 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 busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is both flavorful and versatile, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic and sesame oil creates a rich and savory experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm as a main or cold as a salad; it’s great any time!
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Customizable Recipe: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles, you’ll want to have the right tools on hand. These essential items will help you achieve the best results effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Frying pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the noodles evenly until tender.
• Frying pan: Perfect for sautéing garlic and bringing out its flavor.
• Garlic press: Makes mincing garlic quick and easy for those who love convenience.

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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 teaspoons 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. Cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to achieve small pieces. This will enhance the flavor in your sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until smooth. Ensure there are no visible clumps of ginger or tahini.

Step 5: Combine Sauce and Garlic

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

Step 6: Combine with Noodles

Once your noodles have finished cooking, combine them with the sauce in the frying pan. Stir well to coat all noodles evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

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

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles

Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them hot or cold, these noodles can be a delightful main dish or a side addition to your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the garlic sesame noodles warm for a comforting meal. The rich flavors of garlic and sesame make them satisfying on their own.

Cold Noodle Salad

• Chill the prepared garlic sesame noodles and toss them with fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell pepper, and carrots for a refreshing summer dish.

With Protein

• Top the noodles with grilled chicken, beef strips, or sautéed tofu for an added protein boost that complements the dish beautifully.

Garnished Options

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing with scallions, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds. These toppings add texture and flavor.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables or a crisp salad to create a balanced meal. The noodles pair well with various Asian-inspired dishes.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles

To make your garlic sesame noodles even better, follow these simple tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a more robust flavor than pre-minced options. It enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add extra veggie broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Heat: Adjust the sriracha amount based on your spice preference. Start small and increase as needed for the perfect kick.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality soy sauce or tamari to elevate the flavor profile of your noodles.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten up your dish and add freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles

Pairing side dishes with garlic sesame noodles can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies sautéed in soy sauce complements the richness of the noodles.
2. Crispy Tofu: Pan-fried or baked tofu adds protein and crunchy texture that balances well with soft noodles.
3. Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar provides a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
4. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a healthy snack option that pairs perfectly with noodles.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup is an excellent way to start your meal, providing warmth and comfort alongside your noodle dish.
6. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies offer a crunchy side that complements the smoothness of garlic sesame noodles.
7. Chili Garlic Green Beans: Spicy green beans sautéed in garlic add heat and depth, creating an exciting combination.
8. Sesame Roasted Cauliflower: Roasting cauliflower tossed in sesame oil brings out its natural sweetness while echoing the flavors in your noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Sesame Noodles, a few common pitfalls can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Not using fresh garlic can dull the flavor of your noodles. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles longer than recommended can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté garlic can lead to a bland sauce. Sauté until golden brown to enhance its flavor.
• Not adjusting sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick or thin, it won’t coat the noodles properly. Adjust with water or broth as needed.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like scallions or crushed peanuts can lessen visual appeal and flavor complexity. Always add them for an extra touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 1 month for optimal flavor.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan, heat over medium until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Sesame Noodles that might help you while cooking this dish.

Can I use other types of noodles for Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Yes, you can substitute with other gluten-free noodles or regular wheat noodles if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy are Garlic Sesame Noodles?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha you add. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste preference.

Can I make Garlic Sesame Noodles vegan?

Absolutely! Replace honey with maple syrup, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

What can I serve with Garlic Sesame Noodles?

These noodles pair well with steamed vegetables or protein like chicken, beef, or tofu for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Garlic Sesame Noodles?

Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Noodles are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them hot or cold and customize them with various toppings and veggies. Give this recipe a try for an effortless yet flavorful meal that everyone will love!