Cold Sesame Noodles

Section: Fast and Simple Recipes for Busy Days

These Cold Sesame Noodles are creamy, savory, and just a little spicy, making them the perfect choice for hot days or quick weeknight dinners. Ready in under 20 minutes, they combine chilled noodles with a rich sesame-garlic sauce and a crunchy cucumber topping. Easily customizable with added veggies or tofu, this plant-based dish is full of flavor and texture. Serve immediately or let it chill for a refreshing twist. Great for make-ahead meals, meal prep, or when you want something easy and satisfying without turning on the stove.

Published By Ioana
Updated on Sun, 15 Jun 2025 16:51:03 GMT
A bowl of cold sesame noodles with vegetables. Bookmark
A bowl of cold sesame noodles with vegetables. | ioanacooks.com

This dish is my go to when the weather gets warm and the stove feels like too much. The noodles are chilled and coated in a rich sesame sauce that’s creamy and savory with just enough kick to keep you going back for more. It is perfect when I want something comforting yet light and ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Noodles: ramen soba or spaghetti all work well choose based on texture preference and availability
  • Sesame Paste: for the signature creamy nutty flavor Chinese sesame paste gives the richest taste
  • Soy Sauce: provides umami and depth opt for low sodium if needed
  • Garlic: use fresh for the most aromatic punch
  • Sesame Oil: for toasted nutty fragrance just a small amount enhances the sauce
  • Sugar: a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy flavors
  • Chili Garlic Sauce: brings gentle heat adjust to taste
  • Rice Vinegar: adds tanginess and brightness to the sauce
  • Water: helps loosen the sauce to a pourable consistency
  • Cucumber: adds crunch and freshness use Persian or English for best texture
  • Salt: essential to season both noodles and cucumber topping
  • Chili Flakes: an optional kick for the cucumber
  • Toasted Sesame Seeds: extra nutty aroma and a pleasant crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add noodles and cook them according to the instructions on the package. Immediately drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to halt cooking and remove excess starch which prevents sticking.
Make the Sesame Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl whisk together sesame paste soy sauce garlic sesame oil sugar chili garlic sauce and rice vinegar until completely smooth. Gradually whisk in one tablespoon of water at a time until the sauce reaches a thick but pourable consistency.
Toss the Noodles:
Add the chilled noodles to the sesame sauce. Use tongs or clean hands to thoroughly coat each strand ensuring the sauce clings evenly. This step is key for full flavor in every bite.
Prepare the Cucumber Topping:
In a small bowl combine thin cucumber slices with a generous pinch of salt and a dash of chili flakes. Let sit briefly to allow the flavors to meld and excess moisture to release.
Assemble and Serve:
Top the coated noodles with the cucumber mixture and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately or chill for one hour for a more refreshing result. The flavors intensify as it rests.
Cold Sesame Noodles with Cucumber and Sesame Seeds. Bookmark
Cold Sesame Noodles with Cucumber and Sesame Seeds. | ioanacooks.com

I always keep a jar of Chinese sesame paste in my pantry for dishes like this. The first time I made it my roommate thought I had picked it up from a takeout spot and I knew I was onto something.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce thickens as it sits so stir in a splash of water before serving to refresh the texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Chinese sesame paste is not available use tahini instead. It will yield a slightly lighter flavor. For extra protein stir in baked tofu or cooked edamame.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a light lunch or pair with chilled edamame or dumplings for a more substantial meal. It also makes a great picnic item as it travels well and is enjoyed cold.

Cold Sesame Noodles with Cucumber and Sesame Seeds. Bookmark
Cold Sesame Noodles with Cucumber and Sesame Seeds. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Chinese sesame paste is made from roasted sesame seeds and commonly used in noodle dishes throughout Chinese cuisine. Its deep rich taste distinguishes it from Middle Eastern tahini which is milder and made with raw sesame.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of noodles can I use?

Ramen, soba, or even spaghetti noodles work well. Just be sure to cook them according to package instructions and rinse under cold water.

→ Can I substitute tahini for Chinese sesame paste?

Yes, tahini can be used as a substitute. Note that tahini has a milder flavor since it's made from raw sesame seeds, unlike the roasted ones used in Chinese sesame paste.

→ How do I prevent the noodles from clumping?

Rinse the noodles well under cold water after boiling. This stops the cooking process and removes surface starch that can cause clumping.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, the ingredients used are naturally plant-based, making it a delicious vegan-friendly meal.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Cold sesame noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir in a bit of water if the sauce thickens.

→ Can I add vegetables or protein?

Absolutely. Try adding shredded carrots, chopped scallions, crushed peanuts, or baked tofu for added texture and nutrition.

Cold Sesame Noodles

Chilled sesame noodles with a creamy garlic sauce and crisp cucumber topping.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
10 minutes
Overall Time
20 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Quick & Easy

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (4 servings of sesame noodles)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan Safe, Made for Vegetarians, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Noodles and Sauce

Ingredient 01 1 pound noodles such as ramen, soba, or spaghetti
Ingredient 02 3 tablespoons Chinese sesame paste or tahini
Ingredient 03 2 cloves garlic minced
Ingredient 04 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Ingredient 06 1 tablespoon sugar
Ingredient 07 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
Ingredient 08 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Ingredient 09 1 to 2 tablespoons water to adjust consistency

→ Topping and Garnish

Ingredient 10 1 cucumber thinly sliced
Ingredient 11 1 pinch salt
Ingredient 12 1 pinch chili flakes
Ingredient 13 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds optional

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch.

Step 02

In a large bowl, whisk together sesame paste, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chili garlic sauce, and rice vinegar. Add water as needed until thick but pourable.

Step 03

Add the chilled noodles to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.

Step 04

In a small bowl, combine sliced cucumber with salt and chili flakes. Toss to coat.

Step 05

Top noodles with cucumber mixture and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for extra chill.

Extra Tips

  1. Rinsing the noodles under cold water stops the cooking process and prevents clumping.
  2. Chinese sesame paste offers a deeper flavor than tahini due to roasted seeds.
  3. Adjust sauce thickness with water for easier mixing.
  4. Salting cucumber draws out moisture and adds seasoning.
  5. Chilling the dish enhances flavor and texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy
  • Contains sesame
  • May contain gluten depending on noodle choice

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 460
  • Total Fat: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 62 grams
  • Protein Amount: 12 grams