Are you a fan of the nutty, slightly sweet flavor that sesame oil adds to dishes? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, you’ll love incorporating these 18 flavorful sesame oil recipes into your repertoire. From savory stir-fries and roasted vegetables to marinades and dressings, we’ve got you covered with inspiration for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of sesame oil and explore its many uses in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for your next gathering, these recipes are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and let the nutty goodness of sesame oil take center stage!
Garlic Sesame Oil Noodles
Elevate your noodle game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the savory goodness of garlic, nutty taste of sesame oil, and tender noodles.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz (225g) rice noodles
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp (30ml) sesame oil
• 1 tsp (5ml) soy sauce
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pan, tossing to combine with the garlic-sesame mixture.
5. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sesame Oil Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Sesame Oil Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A flavorful twist on a classic vegetable side dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sesame Oil Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the bold flavors of sesame oil and chili flakes with the simplicity of a classic stir-fry, making it a quick and delicious meal option. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this spicy and savory dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
4. Add the bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Oil and Soy Glazed Salmon
A sweet and savory twist on traditional salmon, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the rich taste of soy sauce for a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sesame Oil Marinated Cucumber Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for hot summer days, this Sesame Oil Marinated Cucumber Salad is a great accompaniment to any meal. The combination of crisp cucumbers, savory sesame oil, and tangy soy sauce creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced
– 1/2 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Sesame Oil Drizzled Avocado Toast
Elevate your brunch game with this easy and delicious recipe, featuring creamy avocado, nutty sesame oil, and crispy whole grain toast.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (preferably crusty)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice.
3. Drizzle about 1-2 tablespoons of sesame oil over the avocado.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus toast time)
Sesame Oil Infused Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this simple recipe that adds a nutty and aromatic twist with sesame oil. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender.
4. Push cooked vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables. Add cooked rice; stir-fry until combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Oil and Ginger Beef Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful skewers, featuring tender beef, crunchy sesame oil, and the warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add beef cubes to the marinade; toss to coat. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
4. Thread marinated beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill or grill pan with remaining sesame oil.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until beef reaches desired doneness.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sesame Oil Braised Tofu with Mushrooms
A flavorful and savory dish that combines the richness of sesame oil with the earthiness of mushrooms, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and button), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and braise for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Sesame Oil and Honey Glazed Carrots
A sweet and savory twist on traditional roasted carrots, this recipe brings together the nutty flavor of sesame oil and the floral notes of honey to create a deliciously glazed side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with sesame oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. While carrots are roasting, combine honey and remaining sesame oil (1 tablespoon) in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 15-18 minutes, brush them with the honey-sesame glaze.
7. Return to oven and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sesame Oil Sautéed Green Beans
This quick and easy recipe highlights the nutty flavor of sesame oil, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of green beans. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. If using garlic, add it to the pan and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans reach your desired level of tenderness.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sesame Oil and Lime Cilantro Dressing
Elevate your salads with this zesty and refreshing dressing, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, lime juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sesame Oil Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasting sweet potatoes with sesame oil brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nutty, aromatic flavor. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick side dish or as a topping for salads.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, salt, and any desired additional seasonings.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them evenly with the sesame oil mixture.
5. Roast the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sesame Oil and Chili Shrimp
A flavorful and spicy take on traditional shrimp dishes, this recipe combines the savory flavor of sesame oil with the bold heat of chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chili flakes and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the soy sauce, honey, and garlic to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sesame oil-chili mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sesame Oil Garlic Butter Ramen
Transform your ramen game with this aromatic and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add butter to the pan and stir until melted. Then, add grated ginger and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked noodles with soy sauce and water in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1-2 people
Sesame Oil Drizzled Egg Drop Soup
A classic Chinese soup gets a touch of sophistication with the addition of nutty sesame oil, adding depth and warmth to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and cornstarch. Whisk until dissolved.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Pour in beaten eggs in a thin stream, stirring gently with a spoon or whisk to create egg drop-like strands.
4. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Oil and Scallion Pancakes
Start your day with a crispy and savory twist on traditional pancakes, infused with the nutty flavor of sesame oil and the pungency of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/2 cup scallion greens, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and eggs until smooth.
2. Add sesame oil, chopped scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Sesame Oil Marinated Grilled Eggplant
Eggplant takes center stage in this flavorful summer side dish, infused with the nutty goodness of sesame oil and a hint of Asian-inspired spices. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Slice eggplants into 1-inch thick rounds.
4. Place eggplant slices in a shallow dish; pour marinade over them, making sure each slice is coated.
5. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
6. Remove from marinade and grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of sesame oil with these 18 flavorful recipes for every occasion! From savory dishes like Garlic Sesame Oil Noodles and Spicy Sesame Oil Chicken Stir-Fry, to sweet treats like Sesame Oil Drizzled Avocado Toast, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with Sesame Oil Glazed Salmon or try a new twist on classic stir-fries with Sesame Oil and Ginger Beef Skewers. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food like Sesame Oil Braised Tofu with Mushrooms or a quick and easy snack like Sesame Oil Sautéed Green Beans, this collection has got you covered.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
