Sesame Noodles Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the harmonious flavors and easy, breezy prep of Sesame Noodles! This dish is the ultimate mood booster—savory, nutty, and ever-so-slightly sweet, with a delightful chewiness from the noodles and crisp freshness from colorful veggies. The best part? Every ingredient effortlessly comes together in under half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or last-minute cravings. Whether you’re a noodle newbie or a long-time fan, Sesame Noodles deserve a spot on your must-make list.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Sesame Noodles is how simple the ingredient list is—nothing fancy, just pantry staples and a handful of fresh veggies, all working together to give you bold, punchy flavor and vibrant color. Each component has a job, whether it’s depth, creaminess, spice, or crunch!
- 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles: Your perfect canvas—choose according to your mood or dietary needs.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Infuses the whole dish with signature nutty aroma and richness.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings deep, savory umami to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a bright pop of tang to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter: Gives creaminess and a subtle, nutty boost.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Adds gentle sweetness—it makes every bite irresistible.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant, zesty bite.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Wakes up the sauce with a hint of warm spice.
- ½ teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional): Kick up the heat to your liking!
- 2 green onions, sliced: For crunch, color, and a little oniony snap.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Tiny but mighty—they really amplify the sesame theme!
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Add crunch, color, and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber: Refreshing, cool, and perfect to balance the sauce.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional): Adds bright, herbal freshness at the very end.
How to Make Sesame Noodles
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Noodles
Begin by cooking your noodles according to the package directions. You’ll want them al dente so they don’t get mushy once tossed with sauce and veggies. Once they’re done, drain and rinse under cold water—this not only cools them down quickly but also stops the cooking process and keeps them from getting sticky. Toss with one tablespoon of sesame oil to keep things glossy and tangle-free.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sesame Noodles Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil with soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, and (if you like a little heat) sriracha. Whisk until the sauce is silky smooth—this is where the magic happens. Taste and adjust as you go; this is your chance to tailor it just how you like.
Step 3: Dress the Noodles
Pour that luscious sauce over your cooled noodles and use tongs or clean hands to give everything a good toss. Make sure every strand is coated—this is vital for that perfect Sesame Noodles flavor in every bite. Take a moment to sneak a taste!
Step 4: Add Veggies and Toss Again
Now, sprinkle in the shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and green onions. Toss again to distribute all the colors and textures throughout—every forkful should look like a confetti celebration of fresh veggies.
Step 5: Top and Serve
Just before you’re ready to serve, shower the noodles with toasted sesame seeds and (if you like) a handful of chopped cilantro. This final flourish adds crunch and a fresh lift, tying your Sesame Noodles together beautifully.
How to Serve Sesame Noodles

Garnishes
Layering on those finishing touches is half the fun! Sprinkle with extra toasted sesame seeds for crunch, a few more green onions for color, or a dash of chili flakes if you crave extra spice. A squeeze of lime over the top can give the noodles a fresh, citrusy zing.
Side Dishes
These Sesame Noodles play well with others! Pair with crispy spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a light Asian cucumber salad. For a bigger meal, add protein like grilled tofu, shredded rotisserie chicken, or blanched edamame right into the noodles or on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity shine: pile your Sesame Noodles high in a big family-style bowl, or serve in cute mason jars for picnic-perfect portability. For a party appetizer, twirl nests of noodles into individual serving cups topped with sesame seeds and cilantro—it’s sure to spark conversation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sesame Noodles are a lifesaver! Transfer the noodles to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Give them a quick toss before serving to redistribute the sauce and veggies; they’ll taste just as fabulous the next day.
Freezing
These noodles aren’t the best candidate for freezing, as the veggies can lose their crunch and the sauce may separate once thawed. For best texture and flavor, enjoy your Sesame Noodles within a few days of making them.
Reheating
Sesame Noodles are designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temp, but if you prefer, a gentle warm-up in the microwave (30 seconds at a time, stirring between rounds) works. Just be careful not to overheat or the noodles might get too soft.
FAQs
Can I add protein to these Sesame Noodles?
Absolutely! Toss in cooked shredded chicken, grilled tofu, sautéed shrimp, or even edamame. Just be sure they’re cooled before mixing them in to keep that signature freshness.
How do I make the dish gluten-free?
Swap out wheat noodles for certified gluten-free rice noodles and use tamari instead of soy sauce. It’s just as delicious and suitable for anyone avoiding gluten.
Is it possible to make the sauce nut-free?
Yes! Simply use sunflower seed butter or tahini in place of peanut butter. You’ll still get creamy texture and rich flavor without any nuts.
Can I prep Sesame Noodles ahead for a party?
Definitely—it’s a party-perfect recipe! Assemble everything a few hours in advance, but wait to add the sesame seeds and cilantro until right before serving so they stay vibrant and crisp.
Do I have to rinse the noodles after cooking?
Yes—rinsing stops the noodles from cooking further, prevents mushiness, and helps them stay loose so every bite gets coated with that dreamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
Give these Sesame Noodles a try and join the crowd of happy noodle-lovers! Whether it’s a speedy weeknight dinner, a cheerful potluck contribution, or just a delicious new favorite in your rotation, this recipe always delights. Let your taste buds go on a flavor adventure—Sesame Noodles style!
Print
Sesame Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sesame Noodles are a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a quick and easy meal. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, and other Asian-inspired ingredients creates a deliciously nutty and savory sauce that coats the noodles and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ½ teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Noodles:
Sauce:
Additional Ingredients:
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then toss with 1 tablespoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey, garlic, ginger, and sriracha until smooth.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the sauce over the cooled noodles and toss to coat. Add shredded carrots, cucumber, and green onions, then toss again.
- Serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and cilantro before serving.
Notes
- These noodles are great served cold or at room temperature.
- Add cooked chicken, tofu, or edamame for extra protein.
- Use gluten-free noodles and tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg