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Easy Creamy Cold Sesame Noodles Recipe with Fresh Veggies to Try Now

easy creamy cold sesame noodles - featured image

A quick and refreshing cold noodle dish featuring creamy tahini-based sesame sauce and crisp fresh vegetables, perfect for light lunches or summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or Asian-style wheat noodles
  • Water and salt for boiling
  • 3 tbsp tahini
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 24 tbsp warm water to thin sauce
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Optional: chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 7-9 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse noodles under cold water to cool. Set aside in colander to drain thoroughly.
  2. While noodles cook, wash and julienne cucumber, shred carrots, thinly slice red bell pepper, and slice green onions. Place vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Optionally add chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for garnish later.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and grated ginger if using. Gradually whisk in 2-4 tbsp warm water until sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust soy sauce or honey as needed.
  4. Transfer cooled noodles into the bowl with fresh vegetables. Pour creamy sesame sauce over noodles and veggies. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let flavors meld and chill. Before serving, toss again and garnish with extra sesame seeds or cilantro if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

Rinse noodles under cold water after cooking to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Whisk sauce slowly when adding water to avoid graininess. Adjust sauce seasoning to taste. Chill noodles after tossing with sauce for best flavor. Add protein like tofu or chicken for a heartier meal. Use tamari and rice noodles for gluten-free version. Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes for spice.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodles, creamy sesame sauce, tahini noodles, summer noodle salad, easy noodle recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free option