Cool, Creamy, and the Best Thing to Eat in Pajamas

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Creamy, cool, and packed with umami-rich flavor, these Sesame Garlic Noodles are the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you needed. Imagine slurping up tender noodles coated in a savory garlic-soy-sesame sauce with a hint of heat and just the right touch of sweetness. Topped with toasted sesame seeds and fresh scallions, each bite is a flavor-packed explosion that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Perfect for lazy nights, meal preps, or a midnight snack in pajamas, this dish comes together in under 15 minutes with pantry staples you likely already have. It’s flexible enough to be eaten cold or warm, as a main dish or side, and it’s endlessly customizable—add veggies, protein, or enjoy it simply as is. However you serve it, these noodles will quickly become a go-to favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Sesame Garlic Noodles Recipe

• Quick and easy: Done in 15 minutes or less.
• Budget-friendly: Uses common, affordable pantry items.
• Versatile: Great hot or cold, and pairs with veggies or protein.
• Packed with flavor: A savory, garlicky, nutty sauce that’s addictive.
• Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for days.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Sesame Garlic Noodles seamless and stress-free, you’ll want to gather the following tools:

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the noodles evenly without clumping.
• Strainer or colander: For draining noodles quickly and thoroughly.
• Mixing bowl: To toss noodles with the sauce evenly.
• Small saucepan or skillet: Needed if you’re toasting sesame seeds or briefly warming the sauce.
• Whisk or fork: For blending the sauce ingredients smoothly.

Each of these tools plays a crucial role—especially the mixing bowl and whisk—ensuring your noodles are coated evenly and that the sauce emulsifies properly for maximum flavor.

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Preparation Tips

Use fresh garlic for a bold, punchy flavor and don’t skip toasting your sesame seeds—they add a surprising depth of flavor and crunch. If you’re planning to enjoy the noodles cold, rinse them under cold water after boiling to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. For warm noodles, toss them immediately in the sauce while still hot to soak in maximum flavor. Always taste your sauce before mixing to adjust salt, sweetness, or heat to your preference.

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Ingredients for This Sesame Garlic Noodles Recipe

• 8 oz spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 tablespoon smooth peanut butter (optional for creaminess)
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar or honey
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili oil (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce if needed)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
• 2 stalks green onions, sliced
• Salt to taste

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Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti or egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water if serving cold, or keep warm for a hot version. Set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, neutral oil, peanut butter (if using), brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Add a bit of water to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.

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Step 3: Toast the Sesame Seeds

In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Shake the pan often to avoid burning. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Place the cooked noodles in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss thoroughly with tongs or chopsticks until every strand is coated evenly.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top the noodles with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately if hot, or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if you prefer it cold.

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Optional Add-ins

• Shredded carrots or cucumber
• Cooked shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp
• Crushed peanuts or cashews
• Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers

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Notes

Sesame Garlic Noodles are incredibly adaptable. You can serve them hot or cold, and the flavors deepen over time, making leftovers just as tasty. If you want a creamier texture, a touch of peanut butter does wonders without overpowering the sesame and garlic. Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control salt levels, especially if you’re planning to add protein or salty toppings.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the noodles: They should be al dente so they hold up when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping the rinse (for cold noodles): Without rinsing, the starch will cause the noodles to clump.
• Using raw sesame seeds: Toasting them brings out the nutty flavor—don’t skip this step.
• Overloading the sauce: It’s flavorful and concentrated, so avoid doubling it unless increasing noodles.
• Not mixing quickly: Toss the noodles with the sauce while they’re still warm (if serving hot) to absorb the flavors better.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the noodles seem dry after storing, revive them with a splash of warm water or a tiny drizzle of sesame oil before serving. These noodles are excellent for meal prepping, and they actually taste better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 680mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes! Udon, soba, rice noodles, or even ramen noodles work well.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, as long as you use a plant-based sweetener like brown sugar or agave.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely—add chili oil, sriracha, or increase the chili flakes.

Can I serve these noodles cold?

Definitely. Just rinse the noodles after boiling and chill before tossing with the sauce.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and rice noodles instead of wheat noodles.

Can I add protein?

Yes! Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even a fried egg work beautifully with these noodles.

Do I have to use peanut butter?

No, it’s optional. You can skip it or use tahini or almond butter as an alternative.

How long will the leftovers last?

Up to 4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors get even better over time.

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Conclusion

Sesame Garlic Noodles are one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making on repeat. They’re ridiculously easy, require minimal effort, and taste like something from your favorite takeout spot. Whether you’re craving a midnight snack or planning your weekly meal prep, this dish delivers on every level—flavor, texture, and comfort. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to.

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