1-Step 1: Boil the noodles Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then cook the 8 ounces of soba noodles according to the package instructions, usually about 4 to 5 minutes. Soba can go from just right to mushy quickly, so keep an eye on the texture and stir gently as it cooks. If your brand recommends a different time, follow the package directions first.

2-Step 2: Rinse well Once the noodles are tender, drain them in a strainer and rinse under cool running water while tossing them around. This step removes extra starch and helps prevent gummy noodles. Shake off the excess water after rinsing. If you plan to serve the dish warm, you can use warm water briefly instead of cold, but still rinse thoroughly.

3-Step 3: Mix the sauce In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon white or yellow miso, and 1 teaspoon grated garlic. Keep whisking until the miso blends in as much as possible. The sauce should taste savory, a little sweet, and bright.

4-Step 4: Slice the green onions Thinly slice the 4 green onions on the bias. This gives the dish a nice look and helps the onions spread more evenly through the noodles. If you want a stronger onion flavor, use the green tops and the pale parts together.

5-Step 5: Toss everything together Return the rinsed noodles to the pan or a large bowl. Pour in the sauce, then add the green onions. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated. If you like heat, drizzle in Sriracha to taste. The sauce should cling lightly to the noodles without pooling at the bottom.

6-Step 6: Finish and serve Top the noodles with toasted sesame seeds and serve right away. You can enjoy this dish cold, at room temperature, or slightly warm. For extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for about 3 minutes before adding them on top.