If you crave a quick, satisfying noodle dish that’s bursting with creamy, nutty flavor, you’ve just found your new favorite. Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles are everything you want in an easy meal: bold, slurpable, refreshingly chilled for hot days, and absolutely perfect for meal prepping ahead. Each bite delivers a harmony of savory peanut sauce, crisp fresh veggies, and the irresistible toastiness of sesame—one forkful and you’ll see why this has a permanent spot in my recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe proves you don’t need a dozen specialty groceries to make something truly special. Each ingredient here plays a role—whether it’s the creamy peanut butter bringing that signature richness, or the zingy ginger waking up your palate. Take a peek, and get ready for the ultimate homemade Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles!
- Noodles: Spaghetti, soba, or rice noodles all work beautifully—choose your favorite for the base texture and soak up all that glorious sauce.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: This is the heart of the dish—opt for a smooth, unsweetened variety to achieve a lusciously thick, flavorful sauce.
- Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil adds deep, aromatic warmth that is essential for authentic flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Brings saltiness and umami, pulling the sauce together with a punchy, savory note.
- Rice Vinegar: Gives a subtle tang that elevates the whole flavor profile without overpowering the peanut taste.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness balances out the savory and spicy elements—use maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Fresh Ginger: Grating it in fresh adds instant zip and aromatic brightness that makes the flavors pop.
- Garlic: One clove, minced, infuses every bite with just the right undertone of bite.
- Sriracha or Chili Paste (Optional): Add as much or as little as you like, depending on how spicy you want your noodles!
- Warm Water: Used to loosen up the sauce—just a splash at a time makes it silky and pourable.
- Shredded Carrots: For crunch, color, and a hint of natural sweetness, never skip the carrots.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced for cool, refreshing crispness in every bite.
- Green Onions: Sliced for fresh, peppery bite and a pop of vibrant green.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: Finish with a sprinkle for nutty crunch and a pretty garnish.
- Chopped Cilantro (Optional): Adds a bright herbal note that’s especially welcome on sunny days.
How to Make Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add your noodles of choice. Cook them according to the package instructions until just tender—no one likes mushy noodles! Once done, drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Toss them with a drizzle of sesame oil, which helps prevent sticking and infuses an early layer of flavor right into the noodles.
Step 2: Mix the Signature Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha if you like some heat. Start adding warm water a tablespoon at a time, whisking well, until the sauce is smooth and pours easily. You want it thick enough to cling to the noodles, but loose enough to coat everything evenly.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
Pop your cooled, oil-tossed noodles into a large bowl. Pour in your luscious peanut sauce and use tongs (or your impeccably clean hands!) to toss until every strand is coated. Scatter in the shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and green onions, then tumble it all together again. These fresh veggies add the most irresistible crunch and color to your Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles.
Step 4: Final Touches and Serving
Pile your dressed noodles into bowls or onto a big platter. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and, if you love a fresh finish, a handful of chopped cilantro. Serve chilled or let them come to room temperature—either way, you’re in for a treat!
How to Serve Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles
Garnishes
The right garnish can set your Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles apart. A rain of toasted sesame seeds brings nutty crunch to every bite, and freshly chopped cilantro adds a vivid, herby lift. For a little more zing, try a sprinkle of finely sliced green onions or a scatter of chili flakes. Even a few crisped shallots can turn your bowl into something restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve these noodles with a colorful side: think tangy cucumber salad, steamed edamame, or a chilled Asian slaw for contrast. If you’re looking for extra protein, shredded chicken, cubes of tofu, or shelled edamame fold right in—making the Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles satisfyingly hearty.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not channel your inner chef? Twirl noodles into little nests for a fun party platter, serve in individual mason jars for picnics, or lay them atop a bed of leafy greens for a lunch-worthy salad. Pack them bento-style with extra veggies and a side of sauce for dipping—the options are only limited by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles store exceptionally well—they actually deepen in flavor after a night in the fridge! Simply put them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. If they start to stick together, a quick toss with a splash of water or extra sesame oil will bring them right back to life.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze these noodles, the texture of the noodles and veggies may soften after thawing and lose a bit of that signature crunch. If you must freeze, leave out the veggies and toss them in fresh right before serving for best results. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
Reheating
These noodles are intended to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer them a bit warmer, you can microwave briefly in 15-second bursts—just until they’re no longer chilly. Stir well and add a drop of water or sesame oil if they seem dry. Avoid overheating, as the sauce can thicken too much or start to separate.
FAQs
What type Main Course
The beauty of this dish is its versatility: spaghetti, soba, or rice noodles all work wonderfully. Choose based on your preference—soba adds a nutty, earthy dimension, while rice noodles provide a light, chewy texture.
Can I make these noodles gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce and choose gluten-free noodles—rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti are both excellent options for Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles.
How can I turn this into a full meal?
To make your noodles extra substantial, add shredded cooked chicken, cubes of baked tofu, or stir in some shelled edamame. A handful of chopped peanuts on top also gives extra crunch and makes the dish even more satisfying.
Is there a way to make this nut-free?
Yes! Swap creamy peanut butter for sunflower seed butter, and skip the peanuts in any garnishes. You’ll still get a rich, creamy sauce with tons of flavor—perfect for a school-safe or allergy-friendly twist on Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Definitely. The peanut sauce keeps well in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir and add a splash of water if needed to thin it before tossing with your noodles and veggies.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re packing lunches for the week or throwing together a quick dinner on a warm evening, you’ll love making (and devouring) these Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles. Give them a try and see just how simple, colorful, and craveworthy homemade noodles can be!
Print
Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful dish with these Cold Sesame Peanut Noodles. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, these Asian-inspired noodles are tossed in a creamy peanut sauce and topped with fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 oz spaghetti, soba, or rice noodles
Peanut Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste (optional)
- ¼ cup warm water (as needed for thinning)
Additional:
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then toss with sesame oil.
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and sriracha. Thin with warm water.
- Toss noodles: Coat the noodles with the sauce. Add carrots, cucumber, and green onions. Toss to combine.
- Serve: Chill and serve topped with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Notes
- Add shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame for extra protein.
- For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter.
- Great for meal prep; flavors develop over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
