Noodles are a girl’s best friend, and these easy Garlic Sesame Noodles are without a doubt my favorite noodle recipe to date! They require just a few ingredients, are gluten-free, ready in 15 minutes, and can be enjoyed hot or cold. This dish suits various occasions, from a quick weeknight dinner to a delightful addition to your meal prep.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Noodles
- For the Sauce
- How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Step 1: Boil the Noodles
- Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
- Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- Step 4: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
- Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic
- Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
- Step 7: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles
- As a Main Dish
- With Protein Additions
- In a Cold Noodle Salad
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- At Gatherings
- How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of noodles for Garlic Sesame Noodles?
- How can I customize Garlic Sesame Noodles?
- Are Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?
- What are some side dishes that pair well with Garlic Sesame Noodles?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy days.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and sesame oil delivers a rich taste that will keep you coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot as a main dish or cold as a refreshing salad.
- Gluten-Free: Made with brown rice noodles, this recipe is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome components like garlic and tahini, you can feel good about what you’re eating.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious Garlic Sesame Noodles, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Pan
- Garlic press or knife
- Whisk
- Bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling noodles evenly and preventing them from clumping together.
- Pan: Perfect for sautéing garlic to release its fragrant flavor without burning it.
- Garlic press or knife: Ensures minced garlic is finely chopped to enhance the sauce’s taste.
- Whisk: Helps to combine sauce ingredients smoothly for an even distribution of flavor.

Ingredients
Noodles
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1/4-1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons veggie broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
How to Make Garlic Sesame Noodles
Step 1: Boil the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the brown rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
Mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press. This ensures that it integrates well into the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to a pan with your choice of neutral oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut). Sauté until the edges turn golden brown.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together all remaining sauce ingredients until there are no visible clumps of ginger and the tahini is well mixed.
Step 5: Combine Sauce with Garlic
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with sautéed garlic. Mix well to combine flavors.
Step 6: Simmer the Sauce
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 7: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Once the pasta is done cooking, drain and combine it with the sauce in the pan. Toss gently until all noodles are coated.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Garlic Sesame Noodles with scallions, red pepper flakes, and crushed peanuts before enjoying!
How to Serve Garlic Sesame Noodles
Garlic sesame noodles are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a delightful dinner, or an exciting party dish, these noodles can fit the bill. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
As a Main Dish
- Serve the garlic sesame noodles hot or cold as a satisfying main course. Pair with fresh vegetables for added crunch and nutrition.
With Protein Additions
- Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein. These additions complement the flavors of the sauce and make the dish more filling.
In a Cold Noodle Salad
- Chill the cooked noodles and mix them with chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots. Drizzle with extra sesame oil for a refreshing salad option.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top your bowl with freshly chopped cilantro or basil to add a burst of flavor and freshness to every bite.
At Gatherings
- Serve garlic sesame noodles in a large bowl at parties or potlucks. They can be made ahead of time and served either warm or at room temperature.
How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Noodles
To ensure your garlic sesame noodles come out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a robust flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Monitor cooking time: Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be al dente for the best texture.
- Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed peanuts, scallions, or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Taste before serving: Always taste your sauce before combining it with the noodles. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Noodles
Pairing side dishes with garlic sesame noodles can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the flavors of the noodles.
- Crispy Tofu Bites: These bites are deliciously crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them perfect alongside noodles.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing complements the richness of garlic sesame noodles.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring smoky flavors that pair wonderfully with this dish.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a soothing counterpart to spicy garlic sesame noodles.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a protein-packed snack that pairs well as a side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garlic Sesame Noodles can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
- Ignoring the garlic prep: Ensure the garlic is minced finely or pressed. Large pieces won’t integrate well, affecting the sauce’s flavor.
- Overcooking the noodles: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked noodles become mushy and lose their texture.
- Skipping the simmer step: Don’t rush this! Allowing the sauce to simmer thickens it and melds the flavors beautifully.
- Using too much soy sauce: Stick to the recommended measurement. Excess soy sauce can overpower other flavors in your dish.
- Neglecting toppings: Garnishes like scallions and crushed peanuts add texture and flavor. Don’t skip these for a more vibrant dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Best used within 1 month for optimal taste.
Reheating Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread noodles on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place noodles in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of water and cover; heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Add noodles with a bit of broth or water, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Sesame Noodles:
Can I use different types of noodles for Garlic Sesame Noodles?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with rice noodles, whole wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
How can I customize Garlic Sesame Noodles?
Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Are Garlic Sesame Noodles gluten-free?
Yes! When using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and brown rice noodles, this dish remains gluten-free.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Garlic Sesame Noodles?
These noodles pair well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for balance.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Sesame Noodles are not just quick to make but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding proteins like chicken or tofu and various vegetables to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or as a delightful side dish!
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Garlic Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Garlic Sesame Noodles are a delightful fusion of flavors that come together in just 15 minutes. This easy-to-make dish features brown rice noodles tossed in a savory garlic and sesame sauce, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful addition to your meal prep. Packed with wholesome ingredients like garlic and tahini, this gluten-free recipe is versatile enough to be served hot as a satisfying main course or chilled as a refreshing noodle salad.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon oil (avocado, olive, or refined coconut)
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1/4–1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons veggie broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Boil the brown rice noodles in a large pot of water according to package instructions until al dente.
- Mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press.
- In a pan, sauté the minced garlic in oil over medium heat until golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, veggie broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), tahini, sriracha, and ground ginger.
- Pour the sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drain the cooked noodles and toss them in the pan with the sauce until well coated.
- Garnish with scallions, red pepper flakes, and crushed peanuts before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg