Asian Garlic Noodles are a tasty mix of soft noodles and lots of garlic, making them super flavorful! With a hint of soy sauce and a sprinkle of green onions, they pack a punch.
Who knew something so simple could be so delicious? I love to whip these up on a busy night, and they’re perfect as a side or even a quick meal on their own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Noodles: Use fresh Asian wheat noodles for the best texture, but spaghetti works well in a pinch. If gluten-free, look for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta, and just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for flavor! If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work, but it’s not as tasty. I like to use a garlic press to make it easier.
Oils: Vegetable oil is great for cooking, but try sesame oil for a richer taste. It’s perfect for Asian dishes! If you’re watching calories, you could use less oil or a cooking spray.
Sauces: Soy sauce gives depth. You can use tamari for gluten-free or low-sodium soy sauce if needed. If you skip oyster sauce, replace it with a bit more soy sauce or add a touch of mushroom sauce.
Chili Flakes: They add heat, but you can leave them out if you prefer things mild. A splash of sriracha or chili paste can also work if you like that zing!
How Do You Cook Noodles Perfectly?
Cooking noodles just right is the key to a great dish! Here’s how to make sure they’re perfect:
- Use plenty of water — about 4-6 quarts for 8 oz of noodles. This keeps them from sticking.
- Bring water to a rolling boil before adding noodles. This ensures quick cooking.
- Salt the water generously. This adds flavor to the noodles as they cook.
- Follow package directions for cooking time. Taste a noodle just before the time is up to check for doneness.
- Once cooked, drain immediately but rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. This helps them stay firm and prevents them from sticking together.
With these tips, your noodles will turn out perfectly tender and ready to soak up all those delicious flavors!
How to Make Asian Garlic Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Noodles & Oil:
- 8 oz fresh or dried Asian wheat noodles (lo mein or spaghetti works)
- 4 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 8 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2-3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Toppings:
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh basil or spinach leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal. You’ll have tasty, aromatic noodles ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes if you are using fresh noodles. Drain and rinse them briefly under cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Set the cooked noodles aside.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and chili flakes. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved and set this yummy mixture aside.
3. Sautéing the Garlic:
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add in the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful to watch closely, as garlic can burn quickly!
4. Adding the Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the garlic oil. This will give the noodles a nice flavor base!
5. Combining Everything:
Now pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss everything together to ensure the noodles are evenly covered and heated through. This step is key to achieving that delicious taste!
6. Adding Greens:
If you’re using fresh basil or spinach, toss it in now! Stir briefly until the leaves just begin to wilt. This adds a fresh flavor to your dish!
7. Garnishing:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the green parts of the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top to add a bit of crunch and extra flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Asian Garlic Noodles are now ready to serve! Plate them up and enjoy them as a side dish or as a satisfying main meal.
Enjoy your fragrant and savory Asian Garlic Noodles!
Can I Use Different Types of Noodles?
Absolutely! While fresh Asian wheat noodles or spaghetti work best, you can also use rice noodles or even whole grain pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodle you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
To keep this dish vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or additional soy sauce. Check that your hoisin sauce is vegan-friendly as some brands may contain animal products.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or any protein of your choice. Just toss them in after sautéing the garlic to heat them through before adding the noodles.
