Garlic Parmesan Asian Noodles

Garlic Parmesan Asian Noodles are a savory fusion dish that combines Asian-inspired flavors with classic Italian ingredients. Featuring a rich garlic butter sauce, soy and oyster sauces for depth, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy twist, this noodle dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a satisfying lunch, these noodles offer a delightful balance of umami, richness, and a hint of sweetness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Asian noodles or spaghetti (Hakka-style noodles are recommended)
  • 1 bulb garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)

Steps to Make Garlic Parmesan Asian Noodles

1. Cook the Noodles

  1. Boil Water and Cook Noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the noodles or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water (Optional): If you prefer a slightly saucier dish, reserve a cup of pasta water to add at the end if needed.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
  2. Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar, mixing until the sugar dissolves. This creates a savory, slightly sweet sauce base with umami depth.

3. Toss the Noodles

  1. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. If the noodles seem dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
  2. Add Parmesan Cheese and Black Pepper: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the noodles and add freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss well until the cheese melts and combines with the sauce, giving a creamy texture and enhancing the flavor.

4. Garnish and Serve

  1. Add Green Onions: For a pop of color and fresh flavor, garnish the noodles with sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 375 kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! This dish works well with various noodles like rice noodles, udon, or soba, depending on the texture you prefer. Spaghetti or angel hair pasta is a good alternative if you don’t have Asian noodles on hand.

2. Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, try using hoisin sauce or an extra splash of soy sauce with a bit of sugar for sweetness. Keep in mind that hoisin will add a unique flavor.

3. Can I make it vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the fish sauce and replace it with an additional teaspoon of soy sauce or a bit of mushroom sauce for a similar umami effect.

4. How can I add protein to this dish?
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even a fried egg on top. These options blend well with the flavors of garlic and Parmesan.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Asian Noodles

  1. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that pre-minced garlic in jars can’t match. This small detail makes a big difference in the overall taste.
  2. Control the Saltiness: Use low-sodium soy sauce, especially with the addition of fish and oyster sauces, to keep the flavors balanced and avoid over-salting.
  3. Add Parmesan Gradually: Toss the Parmesan cheese into the noodles gradually to avoid clumping and to let it melt evenly, creating a creamy coating on the noodles.
  4. Adjust for Sweetness: The brown sugar provides a subtle sweetness to balance the saltiness and acidity of the sauces. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add an extra pinch.
  5. Sauce Consistency: If you want a creamier, looser sauce, add a few spoonfuls of the reserved pasta water. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, adding a smooth, silky texture.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the noodles appear dry.
  • Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze, the texture of the noodles may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze without the Parmesan, then add it fresh after reheating.
  • Reheating Tip: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain the noodles’ texture and avoid making them mushy.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Asian Noodles offer an exciting fusion of flavors that bring together Asian-inspired sauces and the rich creaminess of Parmesan cheese. This dish is versatile, quick to make, and adaptable to personal tastes, allowing you to enjoy it as a main course or a side. The garlic butter and Parmesan bring a comfort food element, while soy and fish sauces add depth and a hint of saltiness. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, these noodles are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe that satisfies every craving for something savory, garlicky, and a bit indulgent. Enjoy this fusion dish, and elevate your noodle game with ease!