Whether you’re rushing through a weeknight or just craving a quick and flavorful dinner, Asian Sesame Noodles are here to save the day.
Packed with bold flavors from toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and fresh ginger, this dish delivers all the comfort of your favorite takeout, but faster and healthier.
The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, start to finish.
This recipe is proof that with the right ingredients, simplicity and speed can still deliver maximum flavor.
Let’s dive into how to make the perfect bowl of sesame noodles – quickly, easily, and without compromising on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make fast and delicious sesame noodles:
- Noodles – Lo mein, soba, rice noodles, or even spaghetti work well.
- Toasted sesame oil – The key flavor component.
- Soy sauce – Use low-sodium if preferred.
- Rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang.
- Fresh garlic and ginger – For depth and heat.
- Maple syrup or honey – Balances the salt and acid.
- Red pepper flakes or sriracha – Optional, for heat.
- Toppings – Green onions, shredded carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, sesame seeds.
How to Make Asian Sesame Noodles in 20 Minutes
This recipe comes together in four simple steps:
- Boil the noodles
Cook your noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. - Prepare the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and maple syrup or honey. Add chili flakes or sriracha if you want a kick. - Toss the noodles
Add the drained noodles to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Mix in any shredded veggies or pre-cooked proteins. - Top and serve
Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and additional toppings. Serve immediately, or refrigerate and enjoy chilled.
Best Noodles for This Recipe
Not sure which noodles to use? Here are your best bets:
- Lo mein noodles – Traditional and chewy.
- Soba noodles – Buckwheat-based and great for cold versions.
- Rice noodles – Light and naturally gluten-free.
- Spaghetti or angel hair – A great pantry-friendly alternative.
Optional Add-Ins to Boost Flavor & Nutrition
Make these noodles your own by mixing in any of the following:
- Protein options:
Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, tempeh, or edamame. - Veggie ideas:
Julienne carrots, shredded cabbage, snap peas, baby spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. - Crunchy toppings:
Crushed peanuts, cashews, crispy wontons, or shredded nori.
Tips for Perfect Sesame Noodles Every Time
- Rinse your noodles after boiling to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Use toasted sesame oil for that deep, authentic flavor. Regular sesame oil won’t deliver the same result.
- Double the sauce if you like extra flavor or plan to add more ingredients like protein and vegetables.
- Serve hot or cold. These noodles are just as good straight out of the fridge the next day.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Asian Sesame Noodles are ideal for meal prep and taste even better after marinating in the fridge overnight. Here’s how to store and prep:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cold noodle salad: Great as a chilled lunch—just add some fresh greens or veggies before serving.
- Make-ahead sauce: Mix the dressing up to a week ahead and store it in the fridge for fast weekday meals.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use another type of noodle?
Yes! Spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba all work great in this recipe.
How can I add protein?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, tempeh, or even a soft-boiled egg to boost the protein content.
How can I add protein?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, tempeh, or even a soft-boiled egg to boost the protein content.
Quick and Easy Asian Sesame Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti, soba, or rice noodles
- 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 teaspoon sriracha optional, for heat
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup thinly sliced bell peppers or cucumbers
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Boil the noodles
- Cook your noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking.
Prepare the sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and maple syrup or honey. Add chili flakes or sriracha if you want a kick.
Toss the noodles
- Add the drained noodles to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Mix in any shredded veggies or pre-cooked proteins.
Top and serve
- Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and additional toppings. Serve immediately, or refrigerate and enjoy chilled.