Why Make This Recipe

Italian Drunken Noodles are a fun twist on traditional noodles, combining bold flavors and fresh vegetables. This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to add your favorite proteins like chicken or shrimp. The mix of sauces adds a savory punch, while the fresh basil gives it a lovely aroma.

How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

Ingredients

• 8 oz wide rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili paste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots; stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
5. If using, add the cooked chicken or shrimp and cook until heated through.
6. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili paste, sugar, and lime juice.
7. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and pour the sauce over them. Toss everything together to combine.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

How to Serve Italian Drunken Noodles

Serve Italian Drunken Noodles hot, straight from the pan. You can place them in bowls or on plates and garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch. They go well with a side of spring rolls or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Italian Drunken Noodles

To store leftovers, let the noodles cool down first. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over low heat, adding a little water or oil if they seem dry.

Tips to Make Italian Drunken Noodles

• Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should be tender-crisp to keep their color and crunch.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of chili paste to make it as spicy as you like.
• For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken or shrimp and add more veggies like snap peas or mushrooms.

Variation

You can substitute wide rice noodles with other types of noodles, like egg noodles or udon. Try adding different proteins such as tofu or beef, or even mix in more vegetables for added nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I make Italian Drunken Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine when ready to serve.

2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Italian Drunken Noodles are great for meal prep. Just divide them into portions and store them in the fridge for quick meals.

3. Can I freeze Italian Drunken Noodles?
While you can freeze the noodles, it’s best to enjoy them fresh. Freezing may change the texture of the vegetables and noodles. If you do freeze them, consume within a month for the best quality.