Asian Garlic Noodles are a tasty treat! Made with spaghetti, bold garlic, and a touch of Asian flavors, they come together quickly for a satisfying meal.
These noodles are perfect for late-night cravings or busy weeknights. I love adding some veggies or shrimp to make it even yummier! 🥢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Spaghetti works, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try using Asian wheat noodles like udon or soba for a different texture. They bring a more authentic Asian flavor to the dish!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe! If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as bold.
Sauces: Soy sauce and oyster sauce give deep umami flavors. If you need a vegetarian option, try using mushroom soy sauce instead of oyster sauce. It’ll still be delicious!
Vegetables: Spinach is a great addition, but you can also use baby bok choy, kale, or even shredded carrots based on what you have at home. Feel free to mix it up!
Chili Flakes: If you want more heat, add more chili flakes or even some sliced fresh chili peppers. No spice? Just skip them altogether!
How to Ensure Perfectly Cooked Noodles?
Cooking your noodles just right is key to this dish! Here are some tips to get them spot on:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water to help the noodles flavor nicely.
- Check the package for cooking times and test your noodles a minute before the suggested time to avoid mushiness.
- When you drain the noodles, don’t rinse them unless you want to cool them for a salad. This helps sauce stick better!
Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Noodles:
- 8 oz spaghetti or Asian-style wheat noodles
For The Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 6-8 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
For The Vegetables:
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
For Garnishing:
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Black sesame seeds
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the noodles, and another 10 minutes to sauté the garlic, mushrooms, and mix everything together. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti or noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and red chili flakes. This sweet and savory sauce is what makes the noodles so delicious!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Heat the vegetable or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. Keep stirring it to make sure it doesn’t burn—nice and fragrant is what we want!
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. They’ll add a lovely texture to your dish!
5. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles and toss everything together until the noodles are nicely coated with that yummy sauce.
6. Add the Spinach:
Add in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. It’ll add a beautiful color and nutrients!
7. Season and Serve:
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Remove it from heat and transfer the noodles to serving bowls. Garnish with the sliced green onions, black sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your savory, garlicky Asian Garlic Noodles immediately and enjoy this delightful meal!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular spaghetti with gluten-free noodles made from rice or quinoa. They’ll work perfectly with the sauce and maintain the dish’s delicious flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the noodles cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu is a great way to make the meal more filling. Just sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the garlic and mushrooms, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What Should I Serve with Asian Garlic Noodles?
These noodles pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a light salad or some steamed broccoli. They’re also great on their own!
