Nothing says total summer comfort quite like Cold Sesame Noodles—my perennial favorite for when you want maximum flavor with minimum hassle. This dish is a genius combination of slippery, chilled noodles, creamy peanut-sesame sauce, and crisp veggies, all bundled together in a bowl that’s somehow rich, refreshing, and deeply satisfying all at once. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, an impressive potluck option, or a meal prep triumph, Cold Sesame Noodles shine every time with their unbeatable combo of nutty, tangy, and savory notes.

Cold Sesame Noodles Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cold Sesame Noodles lies in its simple, everyday staples that work overtime to deliver bold flavor and vibrant color. Each ingredient does its part, blending together for a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Spaghetti or thin noodles: The perfect base; you can use regular or gluten-free, and they’ll soak up the sauce beautifully.
Creamy peanut butter: Brings that luscious, nutty foundation to the sesame sauce.
Soy sauce or tamari: Delivers salty, umami depth and keeps everything balanced.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way for adding toasty, aromatic warmth.
Rice vinegar: Cuts through the richness and adds a gentle tang that wakes up the palate.
Honey or maple syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to round out all the flavors.
Fresh grated ginger: Lends zingy, peppery freshness that keeps the sauce lively.
Minced garlic: For that irresistible savory kick.
Warm water: Helps achieve the ideal, pourable texture for the sauce—add a little at a time.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Turn up the heat for an extra punch or keep it mild—your choice.
Shredded carrots: Add beautiful color and a refreshing crunch to the noodles.
Thinly sliced cucumber: Cool, crisp ribbons that contrast the richness of the sauce.
Green onions: For sharp brightness and just the right pop of flavor in every bite.
Sesame seeds: Sprinkle for subtle crunch and a classic, nutty finish.
Chopped cilantro or peanuts (optional): For restaurant-worthy garnish, freshness, and a fun finishing touch.

How to Make Cold Sesame Noodles

Step 1: Cook and Chill the Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a gentle boil and cook your choice of spaghetti or thin noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and give them a thorough rinse under cold running water. This crucial rinse does two things: it stops the cooking process, keeping your noodles perfectly springy, and ensures they’re totally cool and ready to soak up all the sesame-peanut goodness. Set them aside to drain completely while you whip up the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sesame Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce or tamari, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and (if you like a kick) those crushed red pepper flakes. With a whisk or fork, blend until the mixture starts coming together, then gently incorporate warm water a spoonful at a time. You’ll see the sauce transform from thick to unimposingly smooth and pourable—just how Cold Sesame Noodles love it!

Step 3: Toss Noodles and Veggies with Sauce

Transfer the cooled noodles to a large bowl and pour in the luscious sesame sauce. Using tongs or chopsticks, gently toss to coat every strand evenly. Add the shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and most of the green onions, folding everything together so each bite is packed with flavor, crunch, and color.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Time for the finishing touches—part of what makes this dish so satisfying! Sprinkle over sesame seeds and, if you’re feeling fancy, scatter on some chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro. Slide your bowl into the fridge and let the flavors mingle for at least 30 minutes—trust me, the wait is absolutely worth it.

How to Serve Cold Sesame Noodles

Garnishes

A big highlight of Cold Sesame Noodles is the fun you can have with garnishes. Extra sesame seeds add a lovely crunch, a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro delivers an herbaceous lift, and roasted peanuts give a big, bold texture. Don’t hold back—finish with more sliced green onion, a swirl of sriracha, or even a squeeze of fresh lime for a burst of brightness.

Side Dishes

These noodles are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with crisp snap peas, a light cucumber salad, spicy edamame, or even grilled chicken (for those who want extra protein) turns lunch into a feast. They also play well with veggie spring rolls or a light miso soup for a truly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Cold Sesame Noodles in a dramatic pasta bowl, twirled into neat mounds, or pile them high on a platter for family-style eating. For a party or picnic, try scooping them into small cups or jars for grab-and-go fun. You can even tuck them into lettuce cups for a handheld, picnic-ready twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Cold Sesame Noodles store like a dream. Simply keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The noodles may absorb some of the sauce over time, making them extra flavorful—but if they seem a bit dry, just add a splash of water or sesame oil before serving.

Freezing

While it’s tempting to freeze everything, Cold Sesame Noodles are at their best when enjoyed fresh from the fridge. Freezing can change the texture of the noodles and sauce, which is why I recommend making only what you’ll eat within a few days. If you must freeze, separate the sauce and noodles, then combine once thawed.

Reheating

These noodles are designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warmer feel, zap your chilled noodles in the microwave for just 20-30 seconds—just enough to take off the fridge chill without detracting from their chewy, refreshing appeal.

FAQs

Can I use different nut or seed butters for Cold Sesame Noodles?

Absolutely! While creamy peanut butter is classic, almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all do a fantastic job in the sauce. Just adjust for consistency and saltiness as needed.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Just swap the honey for maple syrup or agave syrup, and you’re set! The rest of the ingredients in Cold Sesame Noodles are naturally vegan-friendly.

Can I add protein to Cold Sesame Noodles?

Definitely. Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy tofu cubes, or some edamame for a more filling meal that will keep you powered up and satisfied.

Are Cold Sesame Noodles gluten-free?

Cold Sesame Noodles can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of traditional soy sauce, so everyone can indulge without worry.

How do I adjust the spice level?

The recipe calls for crushed red pepper flakes—feel free to use as much or as little as you like, or swap in sriracha or chili crisp for a punchier, custom heat. Start small, taste, and go from there!

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried homemade Cold Sesame Noodles yet, now’s your chance to discover just how easy and addictive they can be. Play with the ingredients, have fun with the toppings, and don’t be surprised if this becomes a staple in your kitchen all year long. Enjoy every flavorful, sesame-swirled bite!

Cold Sesame Noodles Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Satisfy your cravings with this delicious and refreshing Cold Sesame Noodles recipe. Perfect for a quick meal or a make-ahead dish, these noodles are packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Noodles:

12 oz spaghetti or thin noodles (regular or gluten-free)

Sesame Sauce:

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 clove garlic (minced)
1–2 tablespoons warm water (to thin sauce)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional Ingredients:

1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
2 green onions (sliced)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Chopped cilantro or peanuts for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the noodles: Prepare the noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Set aside.
Make the sesame sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Add warm water gradually until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Toss noodles with sauce: Coat the cooled noodles with the sesame sauce. Add shredded carrots, cucumber, and green onions, mixing gently. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with cilantro or peanuts if desired.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the noodles for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy the best flavor when served cold.

Notes

This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Enhance the protein content by adding cooked shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame.
Adjust the spice level by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding sriracha to suit your taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Side Dish
Method: No-Cook (after boiling)
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired