Cold Sesame Noodles
A refreshing meal combining perfectly cooked noodles in a creamy sesame sauce, complemented by crunchy vegetables. Perfect for meal prep and quick dinners during hot summer days.
Ingredients
Noodles and Sauce
- 8 oz Dry spaghetti noodles Core base for a hearty meal.
- 2 tbsp Sesame oil Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- 4 tbsp Soy sauce Use a low-sodium variant for a healthier twist.
- 2 tbsp Rice vinegar Adds a tangy brightness to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Peanut butter Creates a creamy texture and protein boost.
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar Balances the flavors with sweetness.
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger Adds warmth and spiciness.
- 2 cloves Garlic Brings aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha hot sauce Introduces heat; adjust to taste.
Vegetables and Garnishes
- 1 cup Asparagus (optional) A crunchy, nutritious addition.
- 1 medium English cucumber Crisp, refreshing contrast.
- 1 medium Red bell pepper Adds sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup Shredded carrots For added sweetness and texture.
- 2 stalks Green onions For a fresh and mild onion flavor.
- 2 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds For nutty crunch and garnish.
- 1/4 cup Cilantro (optional) For fresh, herbaceous notes.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add kosher salt to the boiling water.
- Chop vegetables: Asparagus, cucumber, red bell pepper, and green onions. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, brown sugar, minced ginger, and smashed garlic to prepare the sauce.
- Thin the sauce with 1-2 tablespoons of water if necessary.
Cooking
- Add spaghetti noodles to the salted boiling water and cook according to package instructions (approximately 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- While the noodles cook, heat a small skillet over medium-high heat, add some sesame oil, and sauté the chopped asparagus for about 3-4 minutes until just tender.
- Once the noodles are ready, drain them and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles with sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Toss in the prepared sauce to coat the noodles evenly.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables and fresh toppings.
Serving
- Transfer the dressed noodles to serving bowls.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and additional cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
Notes
For extra protein, add shredded chicken or tofu. This dish is great for meal prep; keep the sauce and noodles separate until serving to keep them fresh.