Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Italian drunken noodles, a dish that beautifully combines traditional Italian pasta with robust ingredients. This recipe infuses your mealtime with a burst of flavors, making it perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering. Quick to prepare and loaded with taste, these noodles promise to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
– 250g spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 65g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil water in a large pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Add halved cherry tomatoes and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
6. Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan.
7. Season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
8. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the pan with the sauce.
9. Toss everything together until well combined.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fettuccine. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the white wine with vegetable broth and add more vegetables like mushrooms or asparagus.
Serving and Pairings
Italian drunken noodles pair beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or a light white wine. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the flavors further.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid using too much oil, which can make the dish greasy.
– Ensure to deglaze the pan properly to incorporate all flavors.
– Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s crucial for taste.
– Be careful with wine; too much can overpower the dish.
– Make sure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
– Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
– Add protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
– Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process.
FAQs
What is the origin of drunken noodles?
Drunken noodles, or “pad kee mao,” originate from Thailand, but this Italian version incorporates pasta and Mediterranean flavors, blending culinary traditions.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit any meat and use vegetable broth instead of white wine for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, vegetable broth or a splash of lemon juice can provide acidity without the alcohol.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less chili flakes according to your taste preferences.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute that adds more fiber and nutrients to the dish.
Conclusion
Italian drunken noodles are a fantastic choice for a quick yet flavorful meal. With their vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, they are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with friends, this dish brings a taste of Italy to your table. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe and make it your own!
Italian Drunken Noodles
Ingredients
- 250 g spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 zucchini sliced
- 200 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pan.
- Season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti and add it to the pan with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.