Cold Sesame Noodles (Printable Recipe)

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

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Noodles and Sauce

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

→ Topping and Garnish

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

# Steps to Follow:

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.
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.
03 - Add the chilled noodles to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
04 - In a small bowl, combine sliced cucumber with salt and chili flakes. Toss to coat.
05 - Top noodles with cucumber mixture and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for extra chill.

# Extra Tips:

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