These Sesame Garlic Noodles are quick, tasty, and full of flavor! With garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce, they make a perfect dish for any day of the week.
It’s so easy to whip up this recipe! I enjoy adding a sprinkle of scallions on top because it makes everything look more fun. Who doesn’t love a little extra color on their plate? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Thin spaghetti works perfectly, but if you have ramen noodles on hand, use those! For a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or zucchini noodles if you’re feeling veggie-inspired.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that strong flavor. However, if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work—just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove. I usually prefer fresh for the aroma and taste!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is great, but you can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is an excellent gluten-free substitute, and coconut aminos can be a nice alternative for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Sriracha: For those who enjoy it spicy, sriracha is a favorite. If you like milder heat, try red pepper flakes or even leave it out entirely. You can also add a bit of ginger for additional warmth.
Broccoli: I love adding broccoli for extra nutrition and crunch! Feel free to swap it with bell peppers or snap peas—just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Getting that perfect garlic flavor can be tricky since burnt garlic tastes bitter. Here’s how to sauté it right:
- Always keep the heat at medium to low. High heat can quickly burn garlic.
- As soon as you add garlic to the hot oil, stir it continuously for even cooking.
- When it starts to color lightly (usually about 1 minute), it’s time to add other ingredients like broccoli to prevent burning.
Trust me; a little attention here makes a big difference in your dish!
How to Make Sesame Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz thin spaghetti or ramen noodles
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
For the Vegetables:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets, chopped small (optional)
For the Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and cooking time. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. You want them to be al dente, so keep an eye on them. Once they’re ready, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Heat the Sesame Oil:
In a large skillet or wok, pour in the sesame oil and heat it over medium heat. This will help give the noodles that rich, nutty flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn! Stir it continuously to keep things even.
4. Add the Broccoli:
If you’re including broccoli, toss it into the skillet next! Stir fry for about 2-3 minutes until it’s tender but still has a nice crunch.
5. Mix in the Sauces:
Reduce the heat to low and add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), and sugar. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Combine with Noodles:
Now, add your cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together so that the noodles are thoroughly coated in that tasty sauce and heated through. It’s all about that flavor!
7. Finish with Green Onions:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped green onions for that fresh, crisp element.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Dish out the noodles into bowls and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Feel free to add extra green onions on top for a pop of color!
And there you have it! This recipe combines the deep nutty flavor of sesame with bold garlic and savory soy sauce, finished with a touch of acidity and heat. Enjoy your Sesame Garlic Noodles as a quick main dish or a delightful side. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti or ramen is ideal, you can substitute with rice noodles, soba noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed for fresh vegetables!
How Spicy Are These Noodles?
The level of spiciness depends on the amount of sriracha or chili garlic sauce you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with just a little or leave it out entirely. You can always add some at the end if you want more heat!
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to include cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even edamame for some extra protein. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to help bring back moisture, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
