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Sesame Noodle Pasta Salad

Colorful sesame noodle pasta salad with creamy tahini sauce and fresh vegetables.

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A satisfying and creamy cold pasta salad featuring a rich tahini and sesame oil sauce. It is a perfect make-ahead meal that is both fresh and comforting, ideal for lunches and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine, broken in half
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
  • 1/2 cup tahini, well-stirred
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2-4 tablespoons warm water
  • 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional)
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately under cold water. Toss with a tiny drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
  3. Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each, until sauce is creamy and pourable. Stir in chili garlic sauce if using.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and green onions.
  5. Pour the sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, toss again and garnish with cilantro and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

Optional add-ins: 1 cup shelled edamame, shredded cooked chicken, or sliced cucumber. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and tamari. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

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