Sesame Noodle Salad

Name: Sesame Noodle Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 ounces udon brown rice noodles, pad thai noodles, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta; 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken; 1 red bell pepper, julienned; 1 cup sugar snap peas, halved; 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded; 2 Persian cucumbers or 1/2 of an English cucumber, julienned; 2 green onions, sliced thin; 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped; 2 teaspoons sesame seeds

By:

Sarah

Published:

January 7, 2026

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This classic Sesame Noodle Salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. As you mix together the colorful vegetables and fragrant noodles, you’ll feel a wave of excitement knowing you’re creating something special. This dish strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and soft textures, with the udon noodles soaking up the zesty sesame vinaigrette. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch or a side at your next barbecue, you’ll appreciate how easy it comes together. Plus, the possibilities for customization mean you can adjust it to your liking. So grab your ingredients, and let’s whip up a delicious salad that you’ll want to share with everyone!

Why This Recipe Works

This Sesame Noodle Salad recipe combines a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Its versatility allows it to shine as both a light lunch and a satisfying side dish at gatherings. The homemade sesame vinaigrette perfectly ties together the noodles, vibrant vegetables, and tender chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Sesame Noodle Salad

You’ll fall in love with this Sesame Noodle Salad for its fresh ingredients and bright presentation. Easy to prepare and entirely customizable, it’s a go-to dish for busy weeknights or summer barbecues. This salad not only looks beautiful on the plate but also delivers a satisfying crunch and a deliciously zesty dressing that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

8 ounces udon brown rice noodles, pad thai noodles, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta
2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
1 red bell pepper, julienned
1 cup sugar snap peas, halved
1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
2 Persian cucumbers or 1/2 of an English cucumber, julienned
2 green onions, sliced thin
1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Preparing the Sesame Vinaigrette

Whisk Together Ingredients for Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic. Whisk until well blended to create a smooth dressing that’s bursting with flavor. The balance of sweet and savory will give your salad that extra zing.

Cooking the Noodles

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the udon brown rice noodles (or your choice of noodles) according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water and drain thoroughly. This will prevent the noodles from sticking together, ensuring each bite is enjoyable.

Mixing the Salad

Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked noodles, cooked and shredded chicken, julienned red bell pepper, halved sugar snap peas, shredded carrot, julienned cucumbers, and chopped cilantro. The vibrant colors and textures will make you excited to dig in!

Dress the Salad

Drizzle your desired amount of sesame vinaigrette over the salad. Toss all the ingredients gently until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. This simple step transforms the salad, making every bite a flavorful experience.

Final Touches

Season and Serve

Taste the salad mixture and add salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch or cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator for a more developed flavor. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

Tips for Success

Make sure to rinse the noodles with cold water after cooking to prevent them from becoming sticky. This is a crucial step for achieving the right texture.
For added crunch, consider sprinkling some additional sesame seeds on top before serving. This little touch can elevate the visual appeal.
Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which is perfect if you’re preparing it ahead of time.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option. This makes the salad just as satisfying while accommodating different dietary preferences.
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, shredded red cabbage, or bok choy to suit your tastes. Feel free to get creative!
Add some heat by including sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha in the vinaigrette. This addition is great for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Sesame Noodle Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as a side dish to Asian-inspired proteins. Serve alongside spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal that feels festive and enjoyable.

Pairing Ideas

Consider serving this salad with a light, refreshing beverage such as iced green tea or a fruity lemonade to enhance the overall dining experience. The combination will truly bring your meal to life!

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too dry, drizzle a bit more sesame vinaigrette before serving to bring it back to life.

FAQs

Can I make this Sesame Noodle Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors improve as it chills, making it even more delicious.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s an excellent meal prep option that holds well for several days and is perfect for lunch.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, feel free to substitute the noodles with your choice, such as whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. This flexibility allows you to cater to dietary needs.

How spicy is this salad?

The salad is not inherently spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding chili sauce or jalapeños. Tailoring the spice is super simple!

What can I substitute for the chicken?

To make this salad vegan, swap the chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors while keeping it plant-based.

This Sesame Noodle Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that makes for an excellent meal any time of year. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and flavorful sesame vinaigrette, it stands out whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. Give it a try, and you’ll surely find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!