Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian drunken noodles are a vibrant and indulgent pasta dish that marries rich flavors with fresh ingredients. This dish is easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or wide rice noodles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the fettuccine or rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add sliced red bell pepper and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Deglaze and Flavor: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Protein Additions: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for added protein.
• Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular noodles with gluten-free fettuccine or rice noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use different types of noodles?
   Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta of your choice.
2. Is it necessary to use wine?
   While white wine enhances the flavor, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
   Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as a soy sauce alternative.
5. How spicy is this dish?
   The level of heat depends on the amount of crushed red pepper flakes you add; adjust according to your taste.
6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and toss it with freshly cooked noodles before serving.
7. What can I serve with this dish?
   It pairs well with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
   Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the noodles. However, the sauce can be frozen separately.
9. What type of white wine should I use?
   A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.
10. How can I make it creamier?
    Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer sauce.

Conclusion

Italian drunken noodles are a deliciously satisfying dish that combines a variety of flavors and textures. With their easy preparation and adaptability, they make for an excellent choice for any occasion. Enjoy this pasta delight with your favorite wine and good company!

Print