30-Minute Vegan Stir Fry Sesame Noodles with Chickpeas & Basil

Looking for a delicious and quick vegan dinner idea? This 30-minute Vegan Sesame Noodles with Chickpeas and Basil is a healthy, plant-based meal loaded with fresh vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and a flavorful sesame sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this stir-fry dish features gluten-free rice noodles (or your favorite noodle variety) tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.

Bursting with vibrant colors and nutrients, this dish is versatile and easy to customize—swap the veggies, add tofu, or make it nut-free! Garnished with fresh basil, roasted cashews, and scallions, it’s a satisfying and wholesome choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re craving Asian-inspired cuisine or need a quick vegan stir-fry recipe, this meal is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
• ⅓ cup water
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or brown sugar (or substitute 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (preferably toasted sesame oil)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (or substitute 1 tablespoon tahini)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ tablespoon arrowroot starch (or substitute cornstarch)

For the Veggies & Chickpeas:

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (preferably toasted sesame oil)
• ½ white onion, cut into large chunks
• 2 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

For the Noodles:

• 10 ounces stir-fry rice noodles (or substitute ramen or soba noodles)

For Serving:

• ½ cup basil leaves, ribboned or julienned
• ½ cup roasted cashews, chopped
• Scallions (green parts only)
• Extra sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, garlic, coconut sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and arrowroot starch (or cornstarch). Set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots, cooking for 2-4 minutes until the onion softens. Add broccoli florets and chopped bell pepper, stirring frequently, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until the broccoli is tender yet crisp.
3. Cook the Noodles:
   While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the stir-fry noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine Chickpeas and Sauce:
   Add the drained chickpeas to the pot with the cooked vegetables. Reduce heat to low and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   Add the cooked noodles, fresh basil ribbons, and chopped cashews to the pot. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Top with scallions and sprinkle with extra sesame seeds. Serve immediately. Makes 4 servings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with veggies, plant-based protein, and wholesome ingredients.
• Bursting with Flavor: A savory, slightly sweet, and nutty sauce elevates the dish.
• Vegan and Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ginger make a big difference in flavor.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Overcooking noodles can make the dish soggy.
• Prep Ahead: Chop veggies and make the sauce in advance to save time.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Alternatives: Replace chickpeas with tofu, tempeh, or edamame for variety.
• Veggie Swaps: Use zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms based on availability.
• Gluten-Free Option: Choose gluten-free tamari and rice noodles.
• Nut-Free: Skip the cashews and sesame seeds or replace with sunflower seeds.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What if I don’t have arrowroot starch?
Cornstarch works perfectly as a substitute to thicken the sauce.

Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

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Serving and Suggestions

Serve these sesame noodles warm or at room temperature, topped with fresh basil and scallions. Pair with a side of vegan spring rolls, a crisp cucumber salad, or a bowl of miso soup for a complete meal. For extra crunch, sprinkle with crushed peanuts or add a drizzle of chili oil for spice lovers!