Ina Garten Szechuan Noodles – Spicy, Savory, and Full of Flavor

Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles bring together a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors in a simple and satisfying noodle dish. Coated in a bold peanut and sesame sauce with a subtle kick of heat, these noodles are easy to prepare and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as part of a festive buffet spread.

What Are Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles?

This recipe features cooked spaghetti or Chinese-style noodles tossed in a rich, spicy sauce made with peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili oil. Fresh vegetables like scallions and bell peppers often add crunch and color, making the dish both hearty and refreshing.

Other Popular Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
• Ina Garten–Inspired Baguette
• Ina Garten Kielbasa with Mustard Dip
• Ina Garten’s German Chocolate Cupcakes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Bold, balanced flavors – Sweet, savory, and spicy
• Versatile dish – Serve hot, cold, or at room temperature
• Great for meal prep – Flavors get better with time
• Vegetarian-friendly – Easily adaptable
• Perfect for parties and picnics – Travels well
• Pairs well with proteins – Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• 1 pound spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons chili oil (adjust to taste)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 scallions, sliced on the diagonal
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

Step 1: Cook the noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, sugar, and chili oil until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Toss noodles with sauce

Add the cooked, cooled noodles to the bowl with the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand evenly.

Step 4: Add vegetables

Mix in the sliced bell peppers and scallions. Toss gently again to distribute.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Transfer to a serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Grilled chicken skewers – Light, protein-packed addition
• Crispy tofu or shrimp – Delicious toppings for extra protein
• Asian cucumber salad – Refreshing side
• Spring rolls or dumplings – Great appetizer pairings
• Steamed broccoli or bok choy – Adds green, healthy contrast
• Chilled rosé or light beer – Refreshing beverage options
• Fresh fruit platter – Light, sweet finish to the meal

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Cook noodles al dente – Prevents sogginess when tossed with sauce
• Use smooth peanut butter – Creates a creamy sauce
• Adjust chili oil to taste – Customize the spice level
• Rinse noodles after cooking – Stops them from sticking together
• Toss noodles while slightly warm – Helps absorb the sauce better
• Taste before serving – Adjust seasoning if needed
• Chill briefly before serving – If you prefer a refreshing cold noodle dish

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Add shredded rotisserie chicken – Easy protein boost
• Top with roasted peanuts for extra crunch – Adds texture
• Include julienned carrots or cucumbers – Fresh, crisp vegetables
• Use almond butter instead of peanut butter – Different nutty twist
• Toss in edamame beans – More plant-based protein
• Spice it up with extra sriracha – For serious heat lovers
• Swap spaghetti with soba noodles – Earthier flavor

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator – Best within 3–4 days
• Toss noodles before serving – Redistribute the sauce after chilling
• Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil if needed – Refresh moisture and flavor
• Not ideal for freezing – Noodle texture becomes mushy

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles

• Serve chilled or at room temperature – Traditional presentation
• If preferred warm: Microwave in short bursts – Stir between intervals
• Refresh with a sprinkle of sesame oil before serving – Revives aroma and flavor

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg

A bold, hearty dish packed with flavor and satisfying textures.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Szechuan noodles ahead of time?

Yes, these noodles are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them up to a day in advance and refrigerate; just toss well before serving to refresh the sauce.

What noodles are best for Szechuan noodle recipes?

Spaghetti, Chinese egg noodles, or even soba noodles work well, as they hold the sauce nicely and maintain a good texture.

How do you keep peanut sauce noodles from sticking together?

Rinse the noodles with cold water after cooking and toss them immediately with the sauce to prevent clumping.

Can I serve Ina Garten’s Szechuan noodles cold?

Absolutely! These noodles are delicious served chilled, at room temperature, or lightly warmed, depending on your preference.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Szechuan Noodles are the perfect blend of bold Asian-inspired flavors and easy, satisfying preparation. With a creamy peanut sauce, a hint of heat, and plenty of fresh crunch, these noodles are a versatile favorite you’ll turn to for everything from quick lunches to party platters. They’re delicious whether served warm, room temperature, or chilled.

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