Garlic Sesame Noodles are a fast, flavor-packed dish that proves simple ingredients can deliver bold results. Made with gluten-free brown rice noodles and tossed in a rich sesame-garlic sauce, this recipe comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal effort.
The combination of toasted sesame oil, tahini, soy sauce, and fresh garlic creates a deeply savory, slightly nutty sauce that clings to every strand of noodle. Balanced with rice vinegar and a touch of sweetness, these noodles are satisfying without being heavy.
Perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or easy meal prep, this dish works equally well served hot or chilled.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe relies on balance and technique rather than complexity.
Finely minced garlic is gently sautéed to release flavor without burning. This creates a fragrant base that infuses the entire dish.
Tahini adds body and creaminess to the sauce without dairy, while toasted sesame oil contributes depth and richness.
Using brown rice noodles keeps the dish naturally gluten-free while maintaining a pleasant chew that holds up to the sauce.
The sauce is briefly simmered before tossing with noodles, allowing flavors to meld and slightly thicken for better coating.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Vegan Dinner / Gluten-Free Pasta
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredient Breakdown
Brown Rice Noodles
Provide a gluten-free base with a neutral flavor that absorbs sauce well.
Neutral Cooking Oil
Used to gently sauté garlic without overpowering the sesame flavor.
Garlic
The backbone of the dish. Finely mincing ensures even flavor distribution.
Soy Sauce or Tamari
Adds salt and umami. Tamari keeps the recipe gluten-free.
Vegetable Broth
Balances saltiness and adds depth to the sauce.
Rice Vinegar
Adds acidity to brighten the rich sesame flavors.
Toasted Sesame Oil
Provides signature nutty aroma and flavor.
Honey or Maple Syrup
Balances salt and acidity with subtle sweetness.
Tahini
Creates a creamy, cohesive sauce without dairy.
Chili Garlic Sauce
Adds gentle heat and complexity. Easily adjustable.
Ground Ginger
Adds warmth and enhances the Asian-inspired profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden and fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, tahini, chili sauce, and ground ginger until smooth.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Toss with Noodles
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and serve warm or chilled.
Texture and Flavor Profile
These garlic sesame noodles are silky, lightly chewy, and fully coated in a rich sauce. The tahini provides creaminess, while sesame oil adds depth and aroma.
Flavor is savory-forward with balanced sweetness, gentle acidity, and subtle heat. The garlic remains bold but not harsh.
Tips for Best Results
• Mince garlic very finely to prevent burning
• Do not overcook rice noodles
• Whisk sauce thoroughly to prevent separation
• Adjust chili sauce to taste
• Serve immediately for best texture
Variations
Spicy Sesame Noodles
Increase chili garlic sauce or add chili crisp.
Peanut Sesame Noodles
Replace half the tahini with natural peanut butter.
Vegetable Add-Ins
Toss with shredded cabbage, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
Protein Boost
Add baked tofu, edamame, or tempeh.
Cold Noodle Salad
Chill noodles and add scallions and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Sesame Noodles can be served:
• As a standalone vegan main
• Alongside stir-fried vegetables
• With dumplings or spring rolls
• As a chilled noodle salad
They are excellent for packed lunches and meal prep.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. Can also be eaten cold.
Nutrition Overview
This dish is plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving:
Calories: ~305 kcal
Healthy fats from sesame and tahini
Moderate carbohydrates from rice noodles
Naturally cholesterol-free
Values vary by ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use wheat noodles?
Yes, if gluten is not a concern.
Is tahini necessary?
Yes for creaminess, but peanut butter can substitute.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, flavors improve after resting.
Is this good cold?
Yes, it works very well as a chilled noodle dish.
Garlic Sesame Noodles are a reliable, fast, and deeply flavorful meal that fits seamlessly into a plant-based lifestyle. With minimal ingredients and bold results, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking for quick comfort without compromise.
Once you make it, it quickly becomes a staple.
Garlic Sesame Noodles
Ingredients
- 12 ounces brown rice noodles
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil such as olive or avocado oil
- 6 garlic cloves very finely minced
- ¼ to ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free tamari
- 2 tablespoons vegetable broth
- 1½ tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or hot sauce adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the noodles cook, heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden and fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, tahini, chili sauce, and ground ginger until smooth.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the garlic and stir well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Remove from heat and serve warm or chilled as desired.
Notes
