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Easy Cold Sesame Noodle Lunch Box Recipe with Edamame for Perfect Summer Meals

cold sesame noodle lunch box - featured image

A quick and refreshing cold sesame noodle lunch box with edamame, perfect for warm days. This recipe combines nutty sesame dressing with tender noodles and protein-packed edamame for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) dried spaghetti or soba noodles
  • 3 tbsp smooth tahini
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 12 tbsp warm water
  • 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked and cooled
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional: shredded carrot or julienned cucumber

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 7-9 minutes until al dente.
  2. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse immediately under cold running water to cool and stop cooking. Toss gently to separate and drain fully.
  3. Cook shelled edamame according to package directions (boil 3-5 minutes), then rinse with cold water to cool.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp tahini, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Gradually add 1-2 tbsp warm water to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Combine cooled noodles and edamame in a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle thinly sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds on top. Add shredded carrot or cucumber if desired.
  7. Serve immediately chilled or pack into a lunchbox and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles; rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Use warm water to thin the tahini dressing for smoothness. Toast sesame seeds for extra flavor. Add a drizzle of sesame oil before mixing dressing if noodles stick after chilling. Dressing can be adjusted with more honey or vinegar to taste. Store noodles and dressing separately if you want firmer noodles. Best served chilled or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold sesame noodles, edamame, summer lunch, easy recipe, quick meal, vegan, gluten-free option, tahini dressing