Why You’ll Love Garlic Sesame Noodles Recipe
It is incredibly quick and easy, ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
The sauce is bold, savory, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with a hint of spice.
It uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand.
It is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side.
It is easy to customize with vegetables, tofu, or your favorite protein.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces brown rice noodles
1 tablespoon oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 to 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
Directions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles according to the package instructions.
Finely mince the garlic or use a garlic press so it blends smoothly into the sauce.
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the garlic and sauté until the edges turn golden brown.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, veggie broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger until smooth and well combined.
Pour the sauce into the pan with the garlic and stir well.
Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Drain the cooked noodles and add them directly to the pan. Toss well until evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve immediately and garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra texture and nutrition.
For added protein, mix in tofu, shrimp, chicken, or beef.
Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the sriracha.
For a nuttier flavor, add a spoonful of peanut butter along with or instead of tahini.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can use spaghetti, ramen, udon, or soba noodles if you do not have brown rice noodles.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey, the recipe is fully vegan.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it is best served fresh. If making ahead, store the sauce and noodles separately for best texture.
What can I use instead of tahini?
Peanut butter or almond butter are great substitutes that still provide a creamy texture.
How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?
Toss them with the sauce immediately after draining, or rinse lightly with warm water if needed.
Can I make it less salty?
Use the lower amount of soy sauce and add more broth or a splash of water to balance it out.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild kick from the sriracha, but you can easily adjust it to your preference.
Can I add more garlic?
Yes, if you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount for a stronger flavor.
What toppings go well with these noodles?
Scallions, sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, cilantro, or chili flakes all work well.
Can I serve this cold?
Yes, these noodles can also be enjoyed cold as a noodle salad.
Conclusion
Garlic Sesame Noodles are a fast, flavorful, and versatile dish that delivers big taste with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them on their own or customize them with your favorite add-ins, this recipe is a reliable go-to for busy days when you want something delicious and satisfying.
Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and savory garlic sesame noodles tossed in a rich, umami-packed sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 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
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté until the edges are golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, veggie broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the pan with the garlic and stir well.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with scallions, red pepper flakes, or crushed peanuts.
Notes
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Add steamed vegetables or tofu for extra protein and texture.
- Adjust sriracha to control the spice level.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
