Cold sesame noodles are the culinary equivalent of a cozy blanket on a chilly day—comforting, soothing, and oh-so-delicious. Imagine twirling tender noodles in a rich sesame sauce that dances between nutty and sweet, with a hint of garlic that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. Each bite is like a mini celebration in your mouth, making it impossible not to smile. For more inspiration, check out this lunch recipes recipe.
Every time I whip up cold sesame noodles, I’m transported back to my college days when my friends and I would gather for movie nights. The aroma of sesame oil filling the air while we slurped noodles and shared laughter made those moments unforgettable. These noodles are perfect for potlucks or just a cozy dinner at home—you’ll find yourself anticipating their amazing flavor experience. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cold sesame noodles are incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze even on busy nights
- The vibrant flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- With their beautiful presentation, they brighten any table effortlessly
- They’re versatile enough to serve warm or cold, adapting perfectly to any occasion
I still remember my friend’s face lighting up when they first tasted these cold sesame noodles; it was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Lo Mein Noodles: Choose fresh or dried lo mein noodles; they provide the perfect chewy texture.
Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for an authentic flavor that elevates the dish.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while keeping it tasty.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best; it adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a zesty kick that balances the flavors beautifully.
Scallions: Slice green onions finely for a crunchy garnish that adds color and freshness.
Cucumber: Julienne cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch that complements the silky noodles.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add an extra layer of nuttiness and visual appeal.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cold Sesame Noodles
Cooking these cold sesame noodles is as fun as eating them! Let’s dive into the steps together.
Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to boil over medium heat. Add lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 4-6 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, peanut butter, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar until smooth. The aroma should be irresistible.
Toss with Noodles: Drain the cooked noodles and rinse them under cold water until cool. In a large bowl, toss the cooled noodles with your prepared sauce until evenly coated—this is where magic happens.
Add Fresh Veggies: Fold in julienned cucumbers and sliced scallions gently into the noodle mixture for added crunch and freshness. You want every bite bursting with flavor!
Garnish: Serve your cold sesame noodles in bowls and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top as an elegant finishing touch. Your guests will be impressed by this simple yet stunning presentation.
These cold sesame noodles come together quickly but pack plenty of flavorful punch. Enjoy every delightful bite!
You Must Know
- Cold sesame noodles are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile
- The creamy sesame sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of vegetables and proteins
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds an appealing crunch and visual flair that makes the dish irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create perfect cold sesame noodles, start by boiling the noodles first while you prepare the sauce. This method ensures that everything is fresh and ready to serve simultaneously.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your cold sesame noodles by adding shredded carrots, cucumbers, or grilled chicken. Swapping soy sauce for tamari can also enhance the flavor for those needing gluten-free options.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cold sesame noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or toss them briefly in a pan over low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cold sesame noodles, use freshly cooked noodles for optimal texture
- Avoid overcooking them; al dente is key!
- Adding a splash of rice vinegar elevates the sauce’s flavor
- Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed
My first attempt at making cold sesame noodles was a disaster; I accidentally poured in too much soy sauce! However, my friends loved it so much they requested it for every gathering afterward.
FAQ
Can I make cold sesame noodles ahead of time?
Yes, these noodles can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
What type of noodles should I use?
Thin wheat or rice noodles work best for this recipe, providing a delightful texture.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a dash of chili oil or red pepper flakes to your sauce for extra heat.
Cold Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cold sesame noodles are a delightful, comforting dish that brings together tender lo mein noodles tossed in a rich sesame sauce with nutty and sweet undertones. Perfect for potlucks or cozy meals at home, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to be served warm or cold. Each bite offers a refreshing crunch from julienned cucumbers and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 scallions, sliced
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente (about 4-6 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, peanut butter, garlic, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Toss the cooled noodles with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Fold in the julienned cucumber and sliced scallions for added crunch.
- Serve in bowls and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
