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Cold Sesame Noodle Bowl

cold sesame noodle bowl - featured image

A quick, flavorful cold noodle bowl with a creamy sesame sauce, fresh veggies, and optional protein, perfect for meal prep and easy lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) thin wheat noodles like soba, ramen, or spaghetti
  • 3 tablespoons sesame paste (tahini or Chinese sesame paste)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or Napa cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional protein: grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of your chosen noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 4-6 minutes for soba). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water until cool to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons sesame paste, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger. Whisk until smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels thick, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency.
  3. Prep the veggies: Thinly slice 3 green onions, julienne 1 medium carrot, and shred 1 cup of cabbage.
  4. Combine noodles and sauce: Place the drained noodles in a large mixing bowl. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss gently until every strand is coated. Add the veggies and toss again to distribute evenly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds on top. If desired, add grilled chicken, tofu cubes, or shrimp. Serve immediately chilled or store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Notes

Rinse noodles thoroughly under cold water after boiling to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for extra flavor. Add sauce gradually to avoid soggy noodles. Store sauce separately if preparing ahead to keep noodles fresh. Adjust sauce sweetness and acidity to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodles, meal prep, easy noodle bowl, sesame sauce, vegetarian, gluten-free option, quick lunch