If you're looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this Garlic Noodles recipe is perfect. It combines simple ingredients to create a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. With the rich taste of garlic, a touch of Parmesan cheese, and the savory blend of soy and oyster sauces, these noodles are sure to become a family favorite. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh green onions, and pair with your favorite protein or vegetables for a complete meal.
Garlic Noodles are a delightful, simple, and flavorful dish that can be prepared quickly and easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce with the aromatic richness of garlic and the creamy touch of Parmesan cheese. The result is a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Whether you're using Asian noodles or spaghetti, this versatile recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Asian noodles or spaghetti: Hakka style noodles are recommended for an authentic touch, but any type of spaghetti or Asian noodles will work well.
- 1 bulb garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to achieving the rich, aromatic flavor in this dish. Mince it finely for the best results.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds a creamy texture and helps to sauté the garlic without burning it.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Provides a savory umami flavor while keeping the dish lower in sodium.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the noodles, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: This gives the noodles a distinctive, salty taste that complements the other sauces perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances out the salty and savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish to the noodles, making them even more indulgent.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional): For garnish, adding a fresh, slightly sharp taste and a pop of color.
With these simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to impress. Ready to move on to the instructions? Just say "OK" to continue!
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of Asian noodles or spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar until well combined. Set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet or wok, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic from 1 bulb and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Toss to combine, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are heated through.
- Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
- Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it is well incorporated into the noodles, adding a creamy and cheesy texture.
- Step 6: Season and Garnish
- Season the noodles with freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with 2 sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.
- Step 7: Serve
- Serve the Garlic Noodles hot, straight from the skillet, for the best taste and texture. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish!
Next up, we’ll cover serving and storage tips along with some helpful notes and variations. Ready for the final part? Just say "OK" to proceed!
Serving and Storage Tips
Garlic Noodles are best enjoyed immediately while they are hot and fresh. Serve them as a main dish or as a side to complement your favorite Asian-inspired meals. Pair these noodles with grilled chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the noodles in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help loosen the noodles and keep them from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.
Helpful Notes
Here are some helpful notes and variations to consider when making Garlic Noodles:
- Protein Additions: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the noodles for a more substantial meal. Simply cook the protein separately and mix it in with the noodles during the final cooking stage.
- Vegetable Variations: Enhance the dish with vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Sauté the vegetables in the skillet after the garlic is fragrant, before adding the noodles and sauce.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the noodles before serving.
- Herb Options: While green onions add a nice touch, you can also garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Quotes from Well-Known Chefs
"Simple ingredients, when handled properly, can create dishes that are just as delicious as those with a long list of fancy items. Garlic Noodles are a perfect example of this." – Ina Garten
"Garlic Noodles are a delightful dish that showcases how the right balance of flavors can elevate even the most basic ingredients." – Gordon Ramsay
This concludes our detailed guide to making delicious Garlic Noodles. Enjoy your cooking and savor every bite!