If you are craving a dish that is both effortlessly delicious and packed with vibrant flavors, then you absolutely must try this Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe. It brings together tender noodles coated in a luscious, creamy tahini sauce, perfectly complemented by the bright, garlicky crunch of sautéed broccoli. This recipe is not only a breeze to make but also offers a comforting, wholesome meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these noodles will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients each play a key role in making the flavors pop and the textures sing in this recipe. From the creamy tahini to the fresh broccoli and aromatic garlic, every component brings something special to the table.
- 8 ounces Noodles: Choose your favorite type, like spaghetti or rice noodles, for the perfect base texture.
- 2 cups Broccoli florets: Fresh and chopped into bite-sized pieces to provide a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
- 3-4 cloves Garlic: Minced for bold flavor that infuses every bite with warmth and aroma.
- 1/2 cup Tahini: This creamy sesame paste adds richness and a subtle nutty depth.
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce: Brings a savory umami flavor that balances the earthiness of tahini.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Adds bright acidity to lighten the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a silky mouthfeel.
- Salt and Pepper: Season according to your taste to enhance all the flavors.
- Pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a little kick of heat that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your noodles in salted water until they are al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes depending on the type. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked noodles provide the ideal texture to soak up the tahini sauce without becoming mushy. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water – this salty, starchy liquid is the secret to adjusting your sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Prep the Broccoli
While the noodles cook, rinse your broccoli carefully and cut it into bite-sized florets. Freshness here is key—the bright green color and slight crispness really make the dish pop both visually and in flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it just until it becomes fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes – too long and the garlic can burn, which makes it bitter. This step infuses the oil and your broccoli with a savory garlic goodness.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli to your garlic-infused oil. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture and vibrant color. If the pan looks dry, splash in some reserved pasta water to help steam the broccoli gently.
Step 5: Prepare the Tahini Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes if you love a little heat. This sauce should be smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable consistency that will coat your noodles beautifully.
Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Transfer the drained noodles into the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the tahini sauce over everything, then toss well to ensure every strand of noodle and piece of broccoli is generously coated in that silky sauce.
Step 7: Heat Through
Let your coated noodles and broccoli cook together for another minute or so to warm everything through and allow the flavors to marry perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Plate your Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe right away, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of texture and color.
How to Serve Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate this dish effortlessly with garnishes. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley add a burst of color and freshness. Toasted sesame seeds offer a subtle crunch that pairs wonderfully with tahini. Even a drizzle of chili oil can turn this into a spicy sensation.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a main, but pairing it with light sides like a simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame balances the meal beautifully. If you want something heartier, grilled tofu or roasted chicken complement the dish’s creamy and garlicky notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Serve the noodles in individual bowls layered with extra broccoli florets on top, or plate them on a large platter for family-style sharing. You could also roll up small portions in lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld treat that’s vibrant and fresh.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day lunch or dinner. Just be sure to stir the noodles before refrigerating to prevent clumping.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish because the tahini sauce and broccoli can change texture when thawed. However, if you want to freeze, keep the noodles and broccoli separate and mix them fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep the noodles moist. Avoid microwaving for too long to preserve the sauce’s creaminess and the broccoli’s snap.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap broccoli for snap peas, asparagus, or green beans. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so your veggies stay tender-crisp and vibrant.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally vegan. For gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free noodles and tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat from the red pepper flakes is optional and mild. You can adjust the amount or skip it entirely depending on your spice preference.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! The tahini sauce can be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Whisk it again and thin with pasta water before use.
What type of noodles works best?
Spaghetti, rice noodles, or even soba noodles work wonderfully. Just pick your favorite type and cook according to the package instructions.
Final Thoughts
There is something genuinely comforting and satisfying about the Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe. It’s a harmonious balance of creamy, tangy, and garlicky flavors that come together so quickly and easily you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Give this recipe a try today — I promise it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, delivering delicious meals with minimal fuss and maximum heart.
Print
Simple Tahini Noodles with Savory Garlic Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for simple tahini noodles accompanied by savory garlic sautéed broccoli. This dish features tender noodles tossed in a creamy, tangy tahini sauce with bright, crisp broccoli, making it a perfect healthy weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 8 ounces Noodles (Use your favorite type such as spaghetti or rice noodles.)
Vegetables
- 2 cups Broccoli florets (Fresh, cut into bite-sized pieces.)
- 3–4 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup Tahini (Creamy sesame paste.)
- 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (For umami flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed.)
- to taste Salt and Pepper (For seasoning.)
- pinch Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, for heat.)
Other
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For sautéing.)
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for the sauce.
- Prepare broccoli: Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and cut into bite-sized pieces if not already done.
- Sauté garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet with garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and is tender-crisp. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the skillet becomes too dry to help steam and cook the broccoli evenly.
- Prepare tahini sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Whisk until smooth and creamy, adding some pasta water as needed to reach a pourable consistency.
- Toss noodles with sauce: Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the tahini sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until the noodles and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Heat through: Cook for an additional minute while tossing to warm everything uniformly. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or soy sauce if desired.
- Serve: Serve the tahini noodles warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute spaghetti with rice noodles or other types for gluten-free options.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- If tahini is too thick, add more reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.
- For added protein, top with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or shredded chicken if not vegan.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt content.
