These Asian Garlic Noodles are a tasty treat! Filled with the wonderful flavors of garlic and soy sauce, they are super easy to whip up and are sure to please your taste buds.
I love to make them when I want something quick yet satisfying. Serve them with your favorite veggies or proteins, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Thin egg noodles are great for this recipe, but if you’re gluten-free or can’t find them, use rice noodles or even spaghetti. You can also try soba noodles for a nutty twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to the flavor. If you run out, garlic powder could work as a substitute, but fresh really packs a punch!
Sauces: Soy sauce is a must. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos. Oyster sauce adds depth, but if you’re vegan, mushroom sauce is a nice alternative.
Sweetener: Brown sugar is perfect for balancing flavors, but you can swap it with honey or maple syrup. Adjust to your taste!
Greens: Bok choy adds nice crunch and flavor. Spinach, kale, or even frozen peas work well if bok choy isn’t on hand.
How Do You Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Getting that perfect garlic flavor requires some attention. Garlic burns easily, which can ruin your dish, so here’s how to get it just right:
- Keep heat to medium—this helps control the cooking.
- Monitor closely! You want the garlic to turn golden without getting brown.
- Adding the white parts of the green onions with the garlic adds flavor and texture.
- Stir often to prevent sticking or burning, especially when the garlic starts sizzling.
With these simple steps, your garlic will be aromatic and flavorful, setting the stage for a delicious dish!
Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 oz thin egg noodles or Asian-style wheat noodles
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 6-8 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (light or regular)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional for extra aroma)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Greens (Optional):
- 1/4 cup chopped leafy greens or bok choy
For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan or toasted sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and the cooking will take another 10-15 minutes. So, you can have a delicious dish ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions until they are just al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside, but make sure to reserve a small cup of pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Add More Flavor:
If you’re using ginger and red pepper flakes, toss them into the skillet now and sauté for another 30 seconds to incorporate their flavors.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Next, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you have it), and brown sugar or honey. Mix everything together well so that the aromas blend harmoniously.
5. Combine Noodles and Greens:
Now, add the cooked noodles and chopped leafy greens to the skillet. Toss everything together vigorously to ensure the noodles are well-coated in the sauce. If it looks a bit dry, pour in some of that reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Heat Through:
Generously season with freshly ground black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the greens are slightly wilted.
7. Final Touches:
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the green parts of the onions on top. If you like, add some grated Parmesan cheese or toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Asian Garlic Noodles are ready! Serve them hot as a comforting main dish or as a delicious side to complement your favorite meal.
This recipe is so quick and easy—it’s the perfect solution for a tasty weekday dinner or a speedy lunch!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! You can substitute the thin egg noodles with rice noodles or even spaghetti if you prefer. Soba noodles are also a great option for a nutty flavor, making this dish versatile!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the oyster sauce or replace it with mushroom sauce. Use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup instead of honey, and ensure that your noodles don’t contain egg.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to revive the noodles and prevent them from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you enjoy, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just chop them small and sauté them along with the garlic for a colorful and nutritious meal!
