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Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles
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Italian Drunken Noodles is a vibrant fusion dish combining the zest of Italian flavors like fresh basil, Parmesan, and white wine with the comforting texture of pasta inspired by Asian drunken noodles. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features a bold, savory sauce with a mild kick of chili flakes, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Dry and Pantry Staples

  • 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup white wine or vermouth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by mincing the garlic and finely chopping the fresh basil leaves. Halve the cherry tomatoes and have your pasta ready to cook. This prep ensures a smooth, quick cooking process.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy water helps create a silky sauce.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes, sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Build the Sauce: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften and release their juices. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until slightly reduced, imparting the characteristic ‘drunken’ flavor.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet along with soy sauce and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir thoroughly to coat every strand with the rich, flavorful sauce.
  6. Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Top generously with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil is essential for the authentic and vibrant flavor; avoid dried substitutes.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to maintain firmness when combined with the sauce.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Add some reserved pasta water when mixing to achieve a silky, emulsified sauce.
  • Adjust Flavors Gradually: Balance soy sauce and lemon juice carefully to maintain harmony between salty, tangy, and spicy notes.
  • Quality Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy and savory finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Drunken Noodles, fusion pasta recipe, spicy pasta, basil pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta, Asian inspired pasta, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/italian-drunken-noodles/