Are you craving a delicious, satisfying meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! These Drunken Italian Noodles are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This easy recipe combines the comforting flavors of Italy with a delightful kick of wine, creating a dish that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for a quick dinner idea or a fun weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be golden, not brown.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the chicken broth and red pepper flakes (if using). Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Drunken Noodles:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for this recipe. It should be firm to the bite.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a big difference.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or less if you prefer a milder dish.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the sauce before adding the pasta.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead for a delicious vegetarian option.
Variations:
- Lemon Drunken Noodles: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Drunken Noodles: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Drunken Noodles: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 10-15g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This delicious and easy recipe makes a wonderful quick dinner idea. It's a healthy and flavorful meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy your homemade drunken Italian noodles!