Certainly! Shortcut Sesame Butter Noodles are a quick and delicious dish that combines the nuttiness of sesame with creamy peanut butter and savory flavors. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you through making it:
Shortcut Sesame Butter Noodles
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin out the sauce if needed)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Cook the Noodles:**
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Sauce:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic (if using), and grated fresh ginger (if using).
- If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Whisk until smooth.
3. **Combine Noodles and Sauce:**
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked and drained noodles.
- Toss the noodles gently with the sauce until they are well coated.
4. **Serve:**
- Divide the sesame butter noodles among serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired.
5. **Optional Additions:**
- You can add cooked vegetables like steamed broccoli, sliced bell peppers, or snow peas to the noodles for added texture and nutrition.
- For protein, you can add cooked and shredded chicken, tofu cubes, or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Tips:
- **Adjust the Sauce:** Taste the sauce before tossing with the noodles. Adjust the sweetness (honey or maple syrup), saltiness (soy sauce), or tanginess (vinegar) according to your preference.
- **Customize:** Feel free to customize the noodles with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- **Serve Warm or Cold:** These sesame butter noodles can be served warm right after tossing with the sauce, or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad.
Shortcut Sesame Butter Noodles are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a simple lunch. The creamy sesame peanut butter sauce adds depth of flavor while being easy to prepare with pantry staples. Enjoy this dish as is or with your favorite additions for a satisfying meal.