Cold Sesame Noodles
Chewy noodles tossed in a creamy, nutty, and tangy sesame-peanut sauce, finished with crisp cucumbers and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. A refreshing and satisfying meal perfect for a warm day.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
- 2
While the noodles are cooking, prepare the sauce
- a.In a medium bowl, combine the Chinese sesame paste, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until a thick, uniform paste forms.
- 3
Slowly drizzle in the hot water while whisking continuously
- a.This process helps emulsify the sauce. Continue adding water and whisking until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and has the consistency of heavy cream. Stir in the chili garlic sauce.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and immediately rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This stops the cooking process and removes excess starch. Drain thoroughly and toss with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- 5
Step 5
- a.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled noodles with the prepared sesame sauce. Use tongs to toss everything together until every noodle is evenly coated.
- 6
Divide the noodles among four serving bowls
- a.Garnish generously with julienned cucumber, sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts (if using). Serve immediately or chilled.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use Chinese sesame paste made from toasted sesame seeds. It has a deeper, nuttier flavor than tahini.
- 2Rinsing the noodles under cold water is a critical step. It prevents them from becoming gummy and ensures a refreshing final dish.
- 3The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will thicken, so whisk in a tablespoon or two of warm water before using to restore its creamy consistency.
- 4To easily julienne a cucumber, slice it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds with a spoon, and then thinly slice the halves into matchsticks.
- 5Don't be alarmed if the sauce initially seizes or looks broken when you add the water. Keep whisking vigorously, and it will become smooth and creamy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Toss in shredded poached chicken, baked tofu, or shelled edamame for a more substantial meal.
Extra VegetablesExtra Vegetables
Add other crisp vegetables like shredded carrots, bean sprouts, or thinly sliced red bell peppers for more color and crunch.
Make it SpicierMake it Spicier
Increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or drizzle with your favorite chili oil just before serving.
Gluten Free VersionGluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free spaghetti or rice noodles and substitute the soy sauce with tamari to make the dish gluten-free.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Plant-Based Protein
The combination of sesame paste and peanut butter provides a good source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
Source of Healthy Fats
Sesame seeds, sesame oil, and peanuts are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Quick Energy Source
The carbohydrates from the noodles provide a quick and efficient source of energy, making this a satisfying and revitalizing meal.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this recipe contains approximately 550-650 calories, primarily from the noodles and the sesame-peanut sauce. The exact count can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.