Cold Sesame Noodle Salad

Jump to Recipe Cold sesame noodle salad is a delicious and easy Asian side dish recipe, perfect for potlucks, summer picnics, or a light meal on its own. If you are looking for a delicious cold salad to bring to your potlucks this summer, look no further than this Cold Sesame Noodle Salad. While many of the […]

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Cold sesame noodle salad is a delicious and easy Asian side dish recipe, perfect for potlucks, summer picnics, or a light meal on its own.

If you are looking for a delicious cold salad to bring to your potlucks this summer, look no further than this Cold Sesame Noodle Salad. While many of the salads that we are used to enjoying at our backyard BBQs are made with creamy bases like Classic Potato Salad or Macaroni Salad. This Sesame Noodle Salad brings an Asian flavor and a dressing that is not quite as heavy.

The nutty sesame dressing, hearty whole wheat noodles and veggies make this salad a hit with everyone. There is no meat or dairy either so it’s great for your vegetarian and vegan friends and family!

Let’s talk about everything you’ll need to make it:

Sesame Cold Noodle Salad:

NOODLES: I recommend using whole wheat linguine or whole wheat spaghetti in this recipe. It adds a heartier bite to the salad.
CARROTS: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend freshly grating the carrots.
GREEN ONIONS: These add a pop of green color and a subtle onion flavor to the dish.
SOY SAUCE: Soy sauce adds a deep salty, umami flavor to the dressing for this salad.
SESAME OIL: This is where the sesame flavor comes from in the salad. Keep in mind that sesame oil is strong and a little goes a long way.
RICE VINEGAR: Rice vinegar is popular in Asian cooking and has a less acidic delicate flavor than distilled vinegar. You can substitute apple cider vinegar or distilled vinegar if you need to.
GROUND GINGER: Adds warmth and sweetness to the dressing.
GARLIC: Minced fresh garlic adds a subtle garlic flavor to the dressing without being overpowering.
SESAME SEEDS: Add nutty crunch to the salad.

Step by Step Photos and Instructions:

Prepare noodles according to package directions.

STEP #1: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain and run under cool water. This will help stop the cooking process. Let them drain again.
STEP #2: While the noodles are cooking, whisk together all of the ingredients for the dressing.
STEP #3: Place the cooked noodles, carrots and green onions in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Toss once more. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Serve.

Like a lot of cold salads, this one is better the longer it has to sit. So make sure to let it chill for at least an hour. You can also make it a day ahead.

Storage and Leftovers:

This salad is great the next day! Just keep it in the refrigerator and use within a few days for freshest flavor.

If you love the flavors of Asian salads, I know you’ll love these recipes too:

Asian Cabbage Salad with Ponzu Dressing

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Note: This post was originally written in 2018. It was updated in 2023 with new photos, nutrition information and a slightly modified recipe.