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Cold Sesame Noodles 1

Cold Sesame Noodles

A refreshing Asian-inspired dish perfect for hot days, these Cold Sesame Noodles feature a nutty sesame sauce coating tender noodles and crisp vegetables for an ideal balance of flavor and texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian, Chinese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 325 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the noodles

  • 8 oz soba noodles substitute with whole wheat spaghetti or rice noodles for gluten-free option
  • 2 cups red cabbage shredded
  • 1 large carrot julienned
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped, optional
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

For the sesame sauce

  • 3 tbsp tahini substitute with natural peanut butter if preferred
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free option
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1-2 tsp sriracha or chili oil optional, for heat
  • 2 tbsp water

Instructions
 

  • Cook soba noodles according to package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes in boiling water. Drain immediately and rinse under cold running water while gently separating the strands.
  • While the noodles cook, prepare your vegetables. Shred the red cabbage, julienne the carrots, slice the bell pepper, and chop the green onions and cilantro.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until completely smooth. Start with tahini and sesame oil to create an emulsion, then gradually add remaining ingredients. If the sauce is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles with the sliced vegetables. Pour the sesame sauce over the noodle mixture and toss gently using tongs or two wooden spoons until everything is evenly coated.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 60 minutes yields optimal flavor development as the noodles absorb the sauce.
  • Just before serving, give the noodles a gentle toss and taste for seasoning. If flavors seem muted after chilling, add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of salt to brighten the taste. Garnish with additional sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and cilantro.

Notes

This recipe is perfect for meal prep and often tastes better the next day as flavors develop in the refrigerator. If preparing in advance, consider storing the sauce separately and combining when ready to eat for best texture.
For a lower-carb option, substitute half or all of the noodles with spiralized vegetables. For higher protein, add edamame, tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
The dish will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of vegetables and noodles becomes compromised upon thawing.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 12gFat: 14gSodium: 480mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 70IUVitamin C: 45mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Cold Noodles, Sesame Noodles, Asian Noodles, Meal Prep
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