Italian Drunken Noodles is a flavorful and hearty dish passed down through generations. This recipe, inspired by Grandma’s cooking, blends fresh vegetables, savory protein, and a rich, aromatic sauce to create a dish that is both comforting and full of bold flavors. The secret behind this dish lies in the delicate balance of balsamic vinegar, red wine, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, which combine to form the perfect sauce to coat the noodles and vegetables.
Why should you make this recipe? First, it’s a great way to enjoy a delicious, homemade pasta dish with just the right amount of sweetness, tanginess, and spice. The combination of tender pasta, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce will have everyone at the table coming back for more. Whether you opt for chicken or shrimp, this dish is packed with protein, making it a well-rounded meal.
The versatility of Italian Drunken Noodles allows you to experiment with different vegetables and proteins based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but also has the elegance to serve at special gatherings. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the meal with your loved ones. Grandma’s Italian Drunken Noodles aren’t just a recipe—they are a heartwarming tradition that brings people together over a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz wide rice noodles or linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 zucchini, julienned
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup red wine (or white wine)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rice noodles or linguine according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, balsamic vinegar, red wine, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
3. Cook the protein: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (or shrimp) and cook until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Combine everything: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss everything together, making sure the noodles are well coated. Add the cooked chicken or shrimp back in and toss again.
6. Add basil: Stir in the fresh chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and additional red pepper flakes if desired.
Why You Should Make This Recipe:
Grandma’s Italian Drunken Noodles are the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, creating a deliciously addictive dish that everyone will love. The balance of fresh vegetables, tender protein, and rich, flavorful sauce makes it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special family dinner or just a weeknight meal, this dish brings the warmth of Italian home cooking to your table. The red wine in the sauce adds a depth of flavor, and the heat from the red pepper flakes can be adjusted to suit your taste, making this dish both versatile and mouthwatering. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
