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Creamy Cold Sesame Noodles with Peanut Sauce

creamy cold sesame noodles with peanut sauce - featured image

A quick and easy summer recipe featuring chilled noodles tossed in a creamy, savory peanut sauce with a hint of spice and fresh garnishes. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • ½ cup (120 g) creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha (optional)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) warm water
  • 2 green onions, sliced thinly
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • 1 small cucumber, julienned
  • Optional: chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of spaghetti or egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process. Toss with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil to keep them from clumping. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup (120 g) creamy peanut butter, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Add ¼ cup (60 ml) warm water gradually, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust water amount if you prefer a thinner sauce. Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha if you want heat.
  3. Thinly slice 2 green onions and julienne 1 small cucumber. Toast 2 tablespoons sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant—about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Pour the peanut sauce over the cooled noodles. Use tongs or two forks to toss everything gently until the noodles are evenly coated. Fold in the cucumber and green onions, leaving a few for garnish.
  5. Transfer to a serving bowl or individual plates. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and optional cilantro or crushed peanuts on top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chillier dish.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles; rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toast sesame seeds fresh for best flavor and crunch. Adjust sauce thickness with warm water as needed. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup. Store sauce and noodles separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodles, peanut sauce, summer recipe, easy dinner, vegetarian, Asian noodles, peanut butter sauce