Spicy Sesame Noodles

Sometimes a recipe really is just two ingredients and 10 minutes. This is one of those. Cooked spaghetti gets tossed in hot pepper sesame oil for a spicy, nutty, warming noodle dish that pairs with almost anything off the grill.

Hot pepper sesame oil is the shortcut. It’s toasted sesame oil infused with chili peppers, which means you’re getting both the rich, nutty sesame flavor and the spicy kick in one bottle. Look for it at Asian grocery stores or in the international aisle of larger supermarkets.

Toss the noodles while still hot. Warm pasta absorbs the oil better and the flavors cling properly.

Serve with grilled or seared chicken or sliced beef for an instant Asian-inspired dinner plate.

Kitchen Tips

• Save a splash of pasta water before draining. Stirring in a tablespoon creates a silkier coat on the noodles.
• Rinse the noodles in cold water if serving cold as a salad; drain and toss with oil while still warm for hot service.
• Taste as you add oil. The heat varies brand to brand; some are mild, others aggressive.
• Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced scallions, or chopped cilantro to dress it up.

Variations

• Add a splash of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for a classic sesame noodle salad dressing.
• Toss in julienned cucumber or shredded carrot for cold noodle-salad texture.
• Top with chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch.