When the summer heat arrives, nothing satisfies quite like a bowl of Cold Sesame Noodles (Liáng Miàn, 凉面). Originating from northern China but now beloved worldwide, this dish is the perfect combination of chewy wheat noodles, a creamy sesame sauce, and crisp fresh vegetables.

Unlike hot noodle soups, cold sesame noodles are designed to refresh. The sesame paste (or peanut butter in some variations) gives the dish a nutty richness, while soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar provide tang and depth. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Noodles:

250g (9 oz) Chinese wheat noodles (fresh or dried) – thin round noodles work best

Cold water & ice (for chilling noodles)


For the Sesame Sauce:

3 tbsp Chinese sesame paste (or natural peanut butter as substitute)

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp dark soy sauce (optional, for color)

1 tbsp rice vinegar (or Chinese black vinegar)

1 tbsp chili oil (adjust to taste)

1 tbsp sugar

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 tsp ginger, grated

2 tbsp warm water (to thin sauce to desired consistency)

1 tsp sesame oil


For Toppings (customizable):

1 small cucumber, julienned

1 medium carrot, julienned

A handful of bean sprouts (blanched)

Scallions, finely sliced

Cilantro, chopped

Crushed roasted peanuts or sesame seeds

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to boil and cook noodles according to package instructions (usually 3–4 minutes for fresh).

Once cooked, immediately drain and rinse under cold water.

Place in an ice bath for 1–2 minutes to chill completely. Drain again and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sesame Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together sesame paste, soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, garlic, ginger, sugar, and sesame oil.

Add warm water gradually until smooth and creamy. (It should be thick enough to coat noodles but not overly stiff.)

Step 3: Assemble the Noodles

Place chilled noodles in a large serving bowl.

Pour the sesame sauce over noodles and toss until evenly coated.

Add toppings: cucumber, carrot, bean sprouts, scallions, and cilantro.

Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for extra crunch.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately as a refreshing main dish or side.

Adjust spice and tang by adding more chili oil or vinegar to taste.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Make Ahead Friendly: Cook and chill noodles in advance, but toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. Add sauce just before serving.

Protein Boost: Top with shredded chicken, boiled egg, or tofu strips for a more filling meal.

Western Variation: Some versions use peanut butter instead of sesame paste for a slightly sweeter, creamier sauce.

Low-Carb Option: Replace wheat noodles with spiralized zucchini or konjac noodles.

🍜 Serving & Experience

Cold Sesame Noodles are more than just a dish—they’re a cooling remedy for hot days, a street food staple, and a picnic favorite. The chewy noodles paired with the nutty sesame sauce create a comforting yet refreshing flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

Simple to prepare yet endlessly versatile, this recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves noodles with a twist of nutty richness and refreshing crunch.