These sesame noodles are loaded with deliciously charred broccoli, garlic, avocados and finished with crunchy cashews.
It’s been forever since I’ve bought broccoli, mostly because I don’t ever know what to do with it. But I’ve been wanting to bring some new (old?) veggies into the mix, and throwing broccoli in with some noodles seemed like the right way to do it! This recipe is fairly simple, though I’ve gone into some detail in the directions for charring broccoli. You’re basically just letting the broccoli fry in the pan for long enough (without stirring) so that it gets a good char without burning.
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Broccoli Sesame Noodles
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian, Omnivore
Description
Hearty noodles tossed with garlicky broccoli and a sesame-soy dressing. Topped with creamy avocado and crunchy cashews.
Ingredients
- 3/4 lb lo mein noodles
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 6 cloves garlic
- 6 heads broccoli
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
- 2 avocados
- Cashews
- Scallions
- Tamari
Instructions
- Boil the noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 teaspoons sesame oil in a large skillet (with a lid) over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté until garlic begins to brown, about 3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli and cook, uncovered, for another 3-4 minutes until the bottom of the broccoli browns. Do not stir during this part (it needs to sit long enough to char).
- Once the broccoli is charred, add 1 tablespoon soy sauce to the skillet and stir, then cover and let steam until broccoli is tender, about 3-5 minutes. If the bottom of your pan seems dry, drizzle with additional sesame oil (one teaspoon at a time).
- Add the cooked and drained lo mein noodles to the skillet with the broccoli.
- Stir until everything is combined. The noodles might be sticky, so drizzle them with sesame oil and work them apart with your hands or tongs.
- Add in cashews, avocado, and scallions.
- Season with black sesame seeds, then drizzle with tamari.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, toast the cashews in a dry skillet before adding them to the noodles.
- If you don’t have lo mein noodles, substitute with spaghetti or linguine. Cook time may vary.
- To prevent the avocado from browning, add it just before serving and store leftovers separately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 70
- Fiber: 10
- Protein: 15
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure the broccoli gets a good char without burning?
To achieve a good char on the broccoli, let it fry in the pan for a longer time without stirring, allowing it to develop a nice crust before flipping.
Can I substitute the avocados in the Broccoli Sesame Noodles?
Yes, you can substitute avocados with another creamy ingredient like tahini or a dollop of yogurt for a similar texture.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
You can use any type of noodles you prefer, but soba or whole wheat noodles complement the broccoli and sesame flavors well.
