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Sesame noodles are a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that come together in just 15 minutes. This recipe delivers a balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors with a nutty sesame finish. Perfect for anyone wanting something simple yet comforting from the pantry staples.
I love how fast it comes together and how the noodles stay moist thanks to the reserved pasta water. This became a go-to when I needed a fuss-free dish that still felt special.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of dry pasta: such as spaghetti or linguine for a familiar bite that holds sauce well
- ¼ cup soy sauce: to provide a salty, umami base choose low sodium if you prefer less salt
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or mirin: gives a gentle acidity for brightness pick one with a clean, mild flavor
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: delivers that deep nutty aroma and flavor essential to the dish
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: adds a hint of sweetness balance the tartness of the vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger: brings fresh spice for a zingy note
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste or minced fresh garlic: for savory depth infused into the noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter: creates a rich, silky coating making the noodles luscious
- 1 green onion: thinly sliced adds color and fresh bite
- Ground black pepper: to taste for a subtle warming peppery kick
- Optional add-ins: include peanut butter for a creamy twist, sriracha to add heat, tahini for extra sesame richness, cooked edamame for protein, toasted sesame seeds for crunch, and red pepper flakes to taste if you want more spice
Instructions
- Bring Pasta to Boil:
- Fill a large pot with water and salt it like the sea this seasons the noodles. Bring it to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente firm but tender.
- Reserve Pasta Water and Drain:
- Before draining the pasta scoop out half a cup of the starchy cooking water and set it aside. Drain the noodles thoroughly to avoid sogginess but you want that reserved water handy.
- Mix Sauce Components:
- While the noodles cook whisk together the soy sauce rice vinegar toasted sesame oil honey grated ginger and minced garlic in a small bowl until well combined. This sauce blends salty umami sweet and tang perfectly.
- Butter and Pasta Water Toss:
- Return the drained pasta to the pot off the heat. Add the butter and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss gently until the butter melts and every strand is coated in a silky gloss. This step seals in moisture and flavors.
- Combine and Adjust:
- Pour the sesame-soy sauce mixture over the noodles along with the sliced green onions. Toss evenly so that the sauce clings to every noodle. Add more reserved pasta water if it feels too dry or sticky.
- Final Seasoning and Serve:
- Season with ground black pepper to bring warmth. Add any optional toppings such as toasted sesame seeds or chili flakes if desired. Serve the noodles hot or chilled depending on your mood or the weather.
Sesame oil is the heart of this dish its nutty aroma is what makes it comforting to me. When I first made this for a busy weeknight it felt like a takeout secret that I could now replicate at home.
Storage Tips
Store the cooled noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce so it doesn’t dry out. You can also eat them cold as a refreshing noodle salad.
Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have sesame oil sub with walnut or olive oil but you lose the signature nuttiness. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor. Replace pasta with rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or low-carb meal.
Serving Ideas
Top your sesame noodles with grilled chicken, tofu or shrimp for protein. Serve alongside steamed or stir-fried veggies like broccoli snap peas or bok choy for a balanced plate. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts and extra green onions goes a long way to add textural contrast.
This recipe is both quick and adaptable making it a pantry staple I rely on often for healthy comfort food.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of noodles work best?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal as their shape holds the sauce well, but any long pasta can work.
- → Can I substitute the honey?
Yes, maple syrup or brown sugar can be used to provide a similar touch of sweetness.
- → How do I prevent noodles from sticking?
Saving some pasta water and tossing noodles with butter helps keep them coated and prevents sticking.
- → What optional ingredients add texture?
Toasted sesame seeds, edamame, or a dollop of peanut butter enrich texture and flavor complexity.
- → How spicy can I make this dish?
Adding sriracha, sambal, or chili oil offers a customizable kick to suit your heat preference.