Italian Drunken Noodles
Italian Drunken Noodles is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Italian cooking with the comfort of Asian noodles. This recipe creates a wonderful medley of vegetables, protein, and delicious sauces, making it a great meal for any day of the week. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Italian Drunken Noodles because it is simple and quick to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a colorful and nutritious meal that is sure to please everyone. This dish brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty elements characteristic of Italian cuisine and the stir-fry goodness of Thai-inspired noodles. It’s tasty and satisfying, whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 1/4 cup basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook rice noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot; stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp, followed by the cooked noodles.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili paste; pour over the noodle mixture. Toss to combine everything well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles
Serve Italian Drunken Noodles while they are hot. You can place them in a large serving bowl for family-style dining or plate them individually. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh look. A side of lemon wedges can add a zesty touch if desired.
How to Store Italian Drunken Noodles
If you have leftovers, let the noodles cool down to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a pan or microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp and colorful.
- You can easily substitute the protein in the recipe with your favorite choice, such as tofu or beef.
- Adjust the amount of chili paste according to your heat preference.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken or shrimp and add more vegetables or tofu. You can also use different types of noodles, like soba or udon, to give the dish a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! You can mix in your favorite vegetables like snow peas, snap peas, or zucchini to make it more colorful and nutritious.
2. What can I do if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or hoisin sauce for a similar taste.
3. Can I make Italian Drunken Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and vegetables in advance. Just store them separately until you are ready to combine and heat them up.
