Cold Sesame Noodle Bowl Cucumber (Printable)

Creamy sesame noodles, crisp cucumber, and herbs for a flavorful vegetarian main—easy, fast, perfect for summer.

# Ingredient List:

→ Noodles

01 - 10 oz thin wheat noodles or soba noodles
02 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil

→ Sesame Sauce

03 - 3 tablespoons tahini or smooth peanut butter
04 - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
05 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
06 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
07 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
08 - 1 clove garlic, finely grated
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
10 - 2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed

→ Vegetables & Toppings

11 - 1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
12 - 2 medium carrots, julienned
13 - 3 spring onions, thinly sliced
14 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
15 - 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
17 - Lime wedges, for serving

# Steps:

01 - Prepare noodles according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to chill completely. Toss noodles with sesame oil to prevent sticking.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini or peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, finely grated garlic, grated ginger, and 2 tablespoons water. Gradually add more water if needed, until sauce is smooth and pourable.
03 - Divide chilled noodles among serving bowls and drizzle generously with sesame sauce.
04 - Arrange cucumber, carrots, and spring onions on top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and sliced chili if desired.
05 - Present with lime wedges for squeezing. Enjoy immediately while cold.

# Tips from the Pros:

01 -
  • The creamy sesame sauce coats every strand while adding a cool, savory kick you'll crave on hot days.
  • Fresh herbs and crisp veggies transform simple noodles into something lively and bright.
02 -
  • If you skimp on rinsing the noodles, they stick together and muddy the flavors—I learned that one messy lunchtime.
  • Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before pouring; the flavors mingle more and create a richer finish.
03 -
  • Leaving the sauce a touch runnier than you think helps it cling without drying out the noodles.
  • Chilling the serving bowls ahead makes the salad feel extra refreshing.
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