Italian Drunken Noodles (Non-Alcoholic)

If you’re a fan of pasta with a bit of spice, this Italian Drunken Noodles recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Inspired by the classic “drunken noodles” found in Thai cuisine, but with a unique Italian twist, this dish offers a flavorful sauce that is both tangy and savory, without any alcohol involved. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or need something quick to impress guests, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

I love making this dish when I’m in the mood for something comforting yet exciting. The balance of spicy red pepper flakes, rich tomatoes, and the deep umami from balsamic vinegar creates a sauce that beautifully coats the noodles. It’s a simple yet robust meal that packs a punch of flavor.

The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull this off. It’s so easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients, and the entire meal comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, you can tweak it to suit your taste, whether you want it spicier or milder. Let’s dive in and get started!

Ingredients for Italian Drunken Noodles (Non-Alcoholic)

For the noodles:

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your preferred noodle)

• Water for boiling

• Salt for pasta water

For the sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 cup vegetable broth (non-alcoholic)

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt in the water will help season the noodles while they cook. Once the water is bubbling, add the spaghetti (or your preferred type of noodle) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the pasta for doneness before draining it.

Once the noodles are perfectly cooked, drain them in a colander and set them aside for now. You’ll want to keep them hot, so don’t worry if you have a little steam rising from the noodles—that’s just the heat you need to absorb all the sauce later on.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to get the sauce ready. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Olive oil is perfect for this dish, adding a rich, slightly fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Once the oil is hot, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small diced onion. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the onion becomes soft and translucent. This is where the magic happens—garlic and onion form the aromatic base for many Italian dishes, and this one is no different. It smells incredible already!

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Now, it’s time to build the flavor of the sauce. Add the entire can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz) along with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir everything together to combine the tomato paste with the crushed tomatoes.

Next, it’s time to add the seasonings. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil for that signature Italian flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, or more if you like your dishes spicy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the pasta water may have added some salt already. Let this simmer together for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the flavors to meld together. The sauce should start thickening, making your kitchen smell wonderful.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Vinegar

Once the tomatoes and seasonings have blended together, it’s time to bring in the vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar. Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth, making sure to stir everything together to combine. This will loosen up the sauce, making it rich and silky while still holding onto all those bold flavors.

Then, add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. This vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the depth of the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it simmers, the sauce will thicken just a little, and all those amazing flavors will come together in a beautifully balanced way.

Step 5: Toss the Noodles

Now for the fun part! Add your freshly cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs or a spoon to toss the noodles in the sauce, making sure they’re well coated. Let the noodles simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to absorb some of the rich tomato sauce. This step helps the noodles soak up all the flavor and gives them that extra burst of deliciousness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

After the noodles have had a chance to mingle with the sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. It’s time to serve! Plate the noodles and garnish them with freshly chopped basil leaves for a pop of freshness. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese will elevate the dish even more.

Serve this Italian Drunken Noodles immediately, while the flavors are fresh and vibrant. I recommend pairing it with a simple salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce

Step 7: Tips for Perfecting the Noodles

When it comes to pasta, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the perfect texture and flavor. Here are a few tips for making sure your noodles are always just right:

1. Salt your pasta water: You’ve probably heard this before, but it really makes a difference! Adding salt to the water helps to season the noodles from the inside out, making them tastier. A good rule of thumb is to add about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4-6 cups of water.

2. Don’t overcook the pasta: The noodles should be cooked al dente, meaning they should have a slight firmness when bitten into. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the sauce for a few minutes, so it’s okay to undercook it by just a minute or so. This helps prevent mushy noodles!

3. Save some pasta water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of pasta water. If your sauce ends up being too thick, you can add a bit of this starchy water to thin it out and help the sauce cling to the noodles.

Step 8: Adjusting the Heat and Flavor

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can adjust the heat level and flavor profile to suit your taste.

1. Spice Level: If you love heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. A little extra kick can take this dish to the next level! On the other hand, if you prefer something milder, you can reduce the red pepper flakes or even omit them altogether. Just remember that the beauty of this dish is in the balance, so taste as you go and adjust to your preference.

2. Add Freshness with Lemon or Vinegar: If you want to add a bit of brightness to the dish, try squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the noodles before serving. A quick splash of lemon can help cut through the richness of the sauce. You could also experiment with using a different type of vinegar, like red wine vinegar, for a slightly different taste.

3. Herb Variations: While basil and oregano are traditional, don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs. Thyme, parsley, or even a bit of rosemary could add some interesting flavors. Fresh herbs will give the dish a lively and vibrant taste, so feel free to get creative!

Step 9: Making It Vegan or Dairy-Free

If you’re making this dish for someone who’s vegan or avoiding dairy, it’s easy to make it completely plant-based. Here are a couple of options to help you achieve that:

1. Skip the Parmesan: The Parmesan cheese can be omitted or swapped for a plant-based version if you’re keeping the dish vegan. Nutritional yeast is a great alternative if you’re looking for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, and it’s packed with vitamins too!

2. Check the broth: While vegetable broth is typically vegan-friendly, be sure to check the label. Some store-bought broths contain hidden animal products like dairy or chicken stock. It’s always a good idea to verify the ingredients if you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions.

Step 10: Additional Toppings and Garnishes

For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can add a few garnishes that will elevate this dish even more. Here are some ideas to try:

1. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you really enjoy spice, sprinkle a few more crushed red pepper flakes on top right before serving. This gives the dish an extra heat boost and a little pop of color.

2. Roasted Vegetables: For a heartier meal, toss in some roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. You can roast them in the oven while you’re preparing the pasta and sauce, then mix them in for added flavor and texture.

3. Olives or Capers: If you want to add a briny punch, try tossing in some Kalamata olives or capers. These ingredients will complement the tangy balsamic vinegar and crushed tomatoes perfectly.

4. Toasted Pine Nuts: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top of the noodles. Their nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce.

Step 11: Serve It With a Side Dish

While this Italian Drunken Noodles is a delicious and filling meal on its own, it can also pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

1. A Simple Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can be the perfect contrast to the rich, spicy noodles. Try a mixed green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. You can even add some shaved Parmesan (if you’re not avoiding dairy) for an extra burst of flavor.

2. Garlic Bread: It’s hard to go wrong with garlic bread as a side. The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce on your plate. Make sure to use a thick, hearty bread like a baguette or ciabatta.

3. Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier side, roasted potatoes with herbs would complement the noodles nicely. The crispy potatoes with a bit of rosemary and garlic will balance out the richness of the sauce.