Cold Sesame Noodles
Cold Sesame Noodles are a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion. This creamy sesame noodles recipe is a meal prep star and a picnic favorite. Toss together this Asian-inspired noodles dish, chill, and enjoy a bold, satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup 60g tahini (or sesame paste)
- 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 2 garlic cloves grated
- 1 –2 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 –3 tbsp warm water to thin sauce
- ½ –1 tsp chili crisp or Sriracha optional, for heat
For the Noodles & Toppings:
- 8 oz 225g noodles (e.g., lo mein, soba, spaghetti, or rice noodles)
- 1 medium cucumber julienned or sliced
- 1 medium carrot julienned or shredded
- 2 scallions sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped cilantro or mint optional
- Chopped peanuts optional, for crunch
Optional Proteins:
- Tofu shredded chicken, edamame, or tempeh
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
- I bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil and cook 8 oz noodles until al dente, following package instructions. I drain, rinse under cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside for this chilled sesame pasta.
Make the Sesame Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, I whisk ¼ cup tahini, 2 tbsp peanut butter, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 grated garlic cloves, and 1–2 tsp grated ginger. I add 2–3 tbsp warm water gradually, whisking until smooth and pourable, adding ½–1 tsp chili crisp if I want heat for these creamy sesame noodles.
- Toss Noodles with Sauce
- I add the cooled noodles to the sauce and toss with tongs until evenly coated, ensuring every strand is covered for this Asian-inspired noodles dish.
Add Veggies and Toppings
- I stir in 1 julienned cucumber, 1 shredded carrot, and 2 sliced scallions. I sprinkle with 1 tbsp sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, peanuts, or optional proteins like tofu for this chilled sesame pasta.
Chill and Serve
- I serve immediately or refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let flavors meld, making this Cold Sesame Noodles even more delicious.
Notes
- Rinse noodles in cold water after cooking to stop them from sticking
- Toss noodles in a little sesame oil before adding sauce if storing
- Thin sauce gradually to avoid watering it down too much
- Chill the noodles before serving for best flavor and texture
- Dont skip garlic and ginger they provide essential depth