sesame pasta salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best sesame pasta salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this sesame pasta salad recipe with you, it’s a staple in our household and always a crowd-pleaser. I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Italy, where I fell in love with the combination of flavors and textures.

The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pasta perfectly. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to whip up this salad on a weeknight or for a quick lunch.

My kids love helping me mix all the ingredients together and adding their own favorite toppings. This recipe is also great for potlucks or picnics, as it’s easy to transport and can be served at room temperature.

Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like whole wheat pasta, veggies, and healthy oils. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, adding some extra spices and herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor.

Now, I’d love to share my version of this delicious sesame pasta salad recipe with you and your family! The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, this salad delivers. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful experience of savoring each bite!

Sesame Pasta Salad

4.9 from 1297 votes

A cold sesame pasta salad with a creamy, nutty dressing and crunchy vegetables. It is perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at a summer barbecue.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

8 oz dried spaghetti or linguine
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

For the Dressing

1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 to 3 tablespoons water, as needed

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing by whisking together tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl.
4Add water one tablespoon at a time until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
5Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water until cool to the touch.
6Shake off excess water and transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
7Add the shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, red bell pepper, and cilantro to the bowl with the pasta.
8Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until well coated.
9Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and toss gently once more.
10Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 54g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 11g

📝Notes

For a gluten-free version, use rice noodles or chickpea pasta. Add grilled chicken or edamame for extra protein. The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Sesame Pasta Salad Works

This sesame pasta salad is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or need a quick lunch on-the-go. It’s easy to scale up or down depending on your needs and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

For storage, simply refrigerate or freeze leftovers in an airtight container for later use. When reheating, be sure to add some fresh herbs to maintain that fresh flavor!

Serve chilled or at room temperature – either way it’s delicious! And don’t forget to enjoy every bite – after all that’s what cooking is all about!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Pasta Salad

1

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
For this recipe, I recommend using whole wheat or whole grain pasta for added nutrition and texture. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed.

2

Can I substitute the sesame seeds with another nut or seed?
Yes, you can use other nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute for sesame seeds. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

3

How do I store leftover sesame pasta salad?
You can store leftover sesame pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use. When reheating, make sure to add some fresh herbs to maintain the flavor.

4

Can I make this recipe vegan by substituting the cheese with a plant-based alternative?

5

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing?
To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing, make sure to cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with the dressing.

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