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Italian Drunken Noodles

Italian Drunken Noodles
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Italian Drunken Noodles are a vibrant fusion dish combining classic Italian flavors like basil, parmesan, and olive oil with the spicy, bold essence of Thai drunken noodles. This quick and easy recipe blends wide rice noodles with aromatic garlic, chili flakes, cherry tomatoes, and your choice of protein, all deglazed in white wine for a rich and balanced taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s customizable, flavorful, and cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Noodles & Base

  • Wide rice noodles – quantity per package instructions (typically 8 oz)
  • Olive oil – 2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves, minced – 3 cloves
  • Red chili flakes – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup
  • Fresh basil leaves – 1/2 cup, loosely packed

Proteins (Optional)

  • Cooked chicken or shrimp – 1 cup (can substitute with mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, Italian sausage, pancetta, or tofu)

Liquids & Seasonings

  • White wine – 1/4 cup
  • Crushed black pepper – 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)
  • Parmesan cheese, grated – 1/4 cup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the noodles: Cook the wide rice noodles according to package instructions until tender but still slightly firm. Drain well and set aside; they will finish absorbing flavors in the pan.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red chili flakes, stirring frequently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt to build the flavor base.
  3. Incorporate tomatoes and protein: Add halved cherry tomatoes and cooked chicken or shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften and protein is heated through, releasing their juices.
  4. Deglaze with white wine: Pour in a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer briefly to reduce slightly and intensify the flavor.
  5. Combine noodles and herbs: Gently fold in the cooked noodles and fresh basil leaves. Toss everything in the pan to ensure noodles are evenly coated with the fragrant, spicy sauce.
  6. Finish with parmesan and seasoning: Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with grated parmesan and crushed black pepper. Toss lightly one last time before serving to melt the cheese gently and balance the heat.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor impact.
  • Do not overcook noodles; keep them slightly firm to better absorb the sauce.
  • Adjust chili flakes gradually to control the spice level.
  • Reserve some noodle cooking water to loosen the sauce if needed during tossing.
  • Use a wide pan or wok to ensure even heat distribution and prevent overcrowding.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Drunken Noodles, spicy noodles, fusion recipe, Italian cuisine, rice noodles, quick dinner, gluten free, easy recipe

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