Savory Garlic Noodles (Printable version)
Quick savory noodles with rich garlic butter sauce and aromatic seasonings.
# What you need:
→ 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)
# How to make it:
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. Serve immediately.
06 - For a vegan version, use vegan butter and a plant-based oyster sauce substitute, and omit Parmesan. Add sautéed mushrooms, grilled shrimp, or chicken for extra protein. Pairs well with a crisp white wine or iced green tea.
# Expert tips:
01 -
- The sauce creates this incredibly glossy coating that makes every slurp feel luxurious
- It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent way more effort on it
02 -
- Browned garlic tastes bitter, so watch it like a hawk once it hits the pan
- The reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for silky noodles that never stick
03 -
- Mince your garlic by hand instead of using a press for better texture control
- Have all your ingredients measured before you start, because everything happens fast