Garlic Noodles Asian Inspired (Printable version)
Quick aromatic noodles with garlicky butter sauce and Asian-inspired seasonings.
# Ingredient list:
→ Noodles
01 - 8 oz spaghetti or Asian wheat noodles
→ Sauce
02 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 3 tbsp olive oil
04 - 8 large garlic cloves, finely minced
05 - 2 tbsp light soy sauce
06 - 2 tsp oyster sauce (vegetarian oyster sauce, if needed)
07 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
08 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Garnishes
09 - 2 tbsp finely chopped scallions
10 - 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
11 - 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.
02 - In a large skillet or wok, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
03 - Lower the heat and add soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
04 - Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for silkiness.
05 - Remove from heat. Top with scallions, Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds as desired.
06 - Serve immediately.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- comes together faster than delivery and tastes infinitely better
- uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand
- hits that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and buttery richness
02 -
- garlic burns faster than you expect, watch it like a hawk and keep it moving
- that pasta water saves your life when sauce gets too thick or clings too aggressively
- room temperature noodles absorb sauce better than cold ones straight from the fridge
03 -
- mince garlic by hand for better texture than pressed garlic releases
- low heat after adding sugar prevents it from seizing or becoming bitter
- resist overcrowding the pan, work in batches if making extra servings