Sesame Chinese Noodles
A quick and flavorful Chinese noodle dish featuring toasted sesame seeds and fresh scallions, perfect for a light lunch or as a side with Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 4 quarts of cold water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt (optional) to the boiling water.
- Cook the Chinese noodles until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain the cooked noodles and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool them down.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Sesame Chinese Noodles, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes until golden brown. This simple step adds a nutty aroma. If you don't have Chinese noodles, spaghetti or another thin pasta works well. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers, or try incorporating a sauce like Beef Teriyaki Sauce for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the noodles warm or cold, garnished with chopped scallions for a fresh crunch. They pair beautifully with Vegetarian Egg Rolls or a side of steamed bok choy. For a complete meal, consider adding protein like grilled chicken or tofu marinated in Oriental Meat Marinade. A sprinkle of additional sesame seeds on top can enhance the dish's visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sesame Chinese Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or sesame oil to a skillet over medium heat, and stir the noodles until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Chinese Noodles contains roughly 944 calories, with 32g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1998mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make Sesame Chinese Noodles gluten-free, simply substitute regular Chinese noodles with gluten-free pasta, such as rice noodles or gluten-free spaghetti. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients, including sauces, for gluten-containing additives.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil during the preparation. You can also serve the noodles with a side of spicy sauce for dipping. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference for the perfect kick!
What can I add for extra protein?
For extra protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are excellent additions. Marinate your protein in a flavorful sauce, such as Beef Teriyaki Sauce, before cooking for enhanced taste. You can also toss in edamame or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that packs a protein punch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).