Garlic Sesame Peanut Noodles
These Garlic Sesame Peanut Noodles are the ultimate comfort food with a global twist—easy to make, rich in flavor, and endlessly adaptable.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti or rice noodles – Both work great rice noodles make it gluten-free.
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter – Natural peanut butter works best for a rich flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free options.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil – Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty depth.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Balances the richness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Or maple syrup to keep it vegan.
- 3 cloves garlic minced – Brings bold, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger optional – Adds a subtle kick of warmth.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions – For crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro optional – Brightens the dish with herbal notes.
- Sesame seeds for garnish – A toasty finish.
Optional additions:
- Add shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers for crunch.
- Top with chopped peanuts for extra texture.
- A dash of chili oil or sriracha for heat.
Instructions
Cook the noodles
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti or rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water if you’re serving it chilled.
- Tip: Don’t overcook the noodles—they should be al dente to hold up to the sauce.
Make the sauce
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, and ginger (if using) until smooth.
- Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of warm water to loosen it.
Combine noodles and sauce
- Add the drained noodles to a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss well to coat every strand evenly.
- Tip: Use tongs or your hands (gloved) to mix thoroughly for best results.
Add fresh toppings
- Stir in the green onions and cilantro (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tang, or honey for sweetness.
Garnish and serve
- Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately if warm, or chill for at least 30 minutes if you prefer it cold.
Notes
- Natural peanut butter works best: It creates a smoother, more authentic sauce.
- Adjust spice levels easily: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or chili oil if you like heat.
- Make it nut-free: Substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Use spiralized veggies: Try spiralized zucchini or sweet potato noodles for a low-carb twist.
- Don’t skip the rinse: If serving cold, rinse the noodles after cooking to stop them from sticking.