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If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s incredibly versatile, you cannot go wrong with this Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe. Whether you’re craving a comforting warm bowl or a refreshing chilled meal, this dish perfectly balances the nutty richness of toasted sesame oil with the bright crunch of bell peppers and the subtle heat from chili garlic paste. With a few simple ingredients and less than half an hour of preparation, these noodles deliver a satisfying, restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that gets better with every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: the noodles provide the perfect canvas, the bell peppers add sweet color and crunch, and the blend of oils and spices ensures the sauce is irresistibly rich and fragrant.
- 12 ounces linguini or spaghetti (gluten-free): Choose your favorite pasta to act as a sturdy base that absorbs the luscious sauce.
- 3 small bell peppers, thinly sliced: These bring a fresh crunch and beautiful pop of color to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the peppers to soften and unlock their sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the entire recipe.
- ¼ cup soy sauce or Tamari: Provides that essential savory umami kick, use gluten-free Tamari if needed.
- 1 ½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil: The star ingredient for that deep, nutty aroma and authentic taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Combined with sesame oil to create a balanced sauce base.
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed: Offers a pungent warmth that infuses the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste or fresh ginger: Adds a zesty brightness and subtle spice.
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar: Lifts the flavors with gentle acidity.
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or white sugar: Balances out the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic paste or Sriracha: Injects a gentle heat that wakes up the taste buds without overwhelming.
- 1 bunch green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch topping.
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional): For garnish, they add a toasty crunch and boost the nutty flavor.
How to Make Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the linguini or spaghetti according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente — tender but still with a little bite. Perfectly cooked noodles ensure the sauce clings just right and don’t get mushy, whether you enjoy the dish warm or cold.
Step 2: Sauté the Bell Peppers
While your pasta is cooking away, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced bell peppers along with half a teaspoon of salt. Sauté for about 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender yet vibrant. This step softens them just enough to meld beautifully with your noodles later.
Step 3: Prepare the Sesame Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce or Tamari, toasted sesame oil, olive oil, crushed garlic, ginger paste, rice wine vinegar, coconut sugar, and chili garlic paste. Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse of your Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe, balancing savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy notes perfectly.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer the Sauce with Peppers
Add your vibrant sautéed peppers back into the skillet if you removed them, then pour the sauce over them. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 1 minute while whisking occasionally. This brief simmer enhances the flavor melding and allows the garlic and ginger to mellow in the sauce.
Step 5: Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Drain your perfectly cooked pasta and immediately add it to the skillet with the pepper and sauce mixture. Toss everything together over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes so the noodles soak up all those amazing flavors. The warm noodles will glisten enticingly with sauce, inviting you to dig in!
Step 6: Serving—Warm or Chilled
This Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe is wonderfully flexible—serve it piping hot garnished with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds, or chill it in the fridge for a refreshing cold noodle dish perfect for sunny days and packed lunches.
How to Serve Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds generously over the noodles for that irresistible nutty crunch and aromatic finish. Top with vibrant, fresh green onions cut into bite-sized pieces for a mild onion flavor and eye-catching greens that brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This noodle dish pairs beautifully with crisp Asian-style cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or even grilled chicken skewers for a more substantial meal. Keep sides light and refreshing to complement the savory richness of the sesame sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive twist, serve these noodles in individual lettuce cups to add a refreshing crunch and use edible flowers or finely sliced red chilies as colorful, elegant garnishes. Alternatively, layer the chilled noodles under a bed of shredded cabbage and carrots for a vibrant noodle salad bowl sure to delight guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover sesame noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The noodles continue to absorb the sauce, intensifying the flavors, so give them a quick toss before serving again.
Freezing
This Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing noodles often alters their texture, making them mushy. For the best experience, avoid freezing and instead plan to consume within a few days.
Reheating
If you prefer the warm version, gently reheat the noodles in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit more sesame oil to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to refresh the vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguini or spaghetti works perfectly, you can also use rice noodles, soba, or even whole wheat pasta to change up the texture or make it gluten-free.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use soy sauce or Tamari without any fish additives. It’s a fantastic plant-based option that’s both filling and flavorful.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of heat depends on how much chili garlic paste or Sriracha you add. Start with a teaspoon as recommended and adjust according to your spice tolerance for a perfect balance.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Definitely! Add grilled tofu, shredded chicken, or shrimp to turn it into a heartier meal. Just toss in your cooked protein along with the pasta during the final mixing step.
What if I don’t have ginger paste?
No worries! Fresh ginger finely grated or minced works just as well, and if fresh isn’t available, a small pinch of powdered ginger can suffice in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
This Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because of how effortlessly it brings together bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a perfect balance of textures. Whether you whip it up for a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing summer lunch, it’s the kind of dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent. I cannot wait for you to try it and make it your own—happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Print
Sesame Noodles Recipe (Cold or Warm) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A versatile and flavorful Sesame Noodles recipe that can be enjoyed warm or cold, featuring tender linguini with sautéed bell peppers and a savory sesame sauce made from toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness and spice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal for up to six servings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces linguini or spaghetti (gluten-free)
- 3 small bell peppers, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
Sesame Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce or Tamari (gluten-free, or Tamari sauce)
- 1 ½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste or freshly crushed ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or white sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic paste or Sriracha sauce
Garnishes
- 1 bunch green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the linguini or spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta once cooked and set aside.
- Sauté Bell Peppers: In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the thinly sliced bell peppers and ½ teaspoon salt. Sauté the peppers for 7-9 minutes until they become tender but still retain some bite.
- Prepare and Simmer Sesame Sauce: While the pasta and peppers cook, whisk together the sesame sauce ingredients in a medium bowl: soy sauce or tamari, toasted sesame oil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, crushed garlic, ginger paste, rice wine vinegar, coconut sugar, and chili garlic paste. Once peppers are soft, pour the sauce into the skillet and simmer for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the pepper and sauce mixture. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly, cooking over low heat for 1-2 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
- Serve: Serve the sesame noodles immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Alternatively, chill the noodles in the refrigerator for 2 hours to enjoy as a cold dish.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta and tamari sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adjust the chili garlic paste or Sriracha amount to control the spice level.
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp when tossing the noodles.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and served cold or reheated gently.
- To toast sesame seeds, heat them in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned.
