Looking for a dish that bridges the culinary gap between Italy and Thailand? The Italian Drunken Noodles blend the richness of Italian ingredients with the essence of Thai drunken noodles. Combining spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and pappardelle noodles, this flavorful fusion dish is quick to prepare and a must-try for any adventurous foodie.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Drunken Noodles
- Rich Fusion: Experience the best of both Italian and Thai flavors in one dish.
- Spicy and Sweet: A tantalizing blend of spicy sausage and sweet bell peppers.
- Quick and Easy: Simple preparation with rich, complex flavors.
- Colorful and Vibrant: Multi-colored bell peppers and fresh herbs add visual appeal.
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you need to make Italian Drunken Noodles:
- Pappardelle noodles (8 ounces): Wide and tender pasta choice.
- Olive oil: For richness and flavor.
- Spicy Italian sausage (4 links, casings removed): Adds a kick of spice.
- Onion (1, thinly sliced and quartered): Provides a sweet and savory base.
- Garlic (4 cloves, pressed): Enhances the flavor profile.
- Bell peppers (1 each of red, yellow, and orange, thinly sliced): Adds color and sweetness.
- Chardonnay or white wine (1/2 cup): Introduces the ‘drunken’ element.
- Diced tomatoes (28 ounces): Forms the base of the flavorful sauce.
- Flat-leaf parsley (2 tablespoons): Adds freshness.
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup, julienned and divided): Herbaceous aroma.
How to Make Italian Drunken Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Pappardelle Noodles
- Boil the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and crumble the spicy Italian sausage. Cook until browned.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
- Add thinly sliced and quartered onions to the pan. Cook until golden, then season with salt, Italian seasoning, and cracked black pepper.
Step 4: Sauté the Peppers
- Add the sliced bell peppers to the pan. Once softened, add the pressed garlic.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- Pour in the white wine and let it reduce. Add the diced tomatoes and the browned sausage. Let the flavors simmer together.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Drizzle olive oil, parsley, and half of the basil into the sauce. Combine the noodles with the sauce, ensuring they are coated. Plate the noodles and garnish with the remaining basil. Enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan and extra olive oil.
Storage Options
To store Italian Drunken Noodles, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the noodles in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with tofu for a meat-free version.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free pasta instead of pappardelle noodles.
- Spicy Preference: Adjust the heat level by adding more chili flakes or using spicier sausage.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
What to Serve With Italian Drunken Noodles
Pair your Italian Drunken Noodles with these complementary dishes:
- Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia
- Roasted Vegetables Medley
- Lemon Sorbet for a refreshing dessert
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
- Yes, red wine can be substituted according to your taste preference.
- Can I make the sauce in advance?
- Yes, preparing the sauce ahead of time can enhance the flavors.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
- Simply omit the sausage or replace it with tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Are there gluten-free options?
- Choose gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
After making Italian Drunken Noodles, you can expect a flavorful and aromatic pasta dish that combines the best of Italian and Thai cuisines. The spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and fresh herbs create a harmonious blend that will delight your taste buds with every bite.
Italian Drunken Noodles
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pappardelle noodles
- Olive oil
- 4 Spicy Italian sausage (links, casings removed)
- 1 Onion (thinly sliced and quartered)
- 4 Garlic cloves (pressed)
- 1 Bell peppers (1 each of red, yellow, and orange, thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup Chardonnay or white wine
- 28 ounces Diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Flat-leaf parsley
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil (julienned and divided)
Instructions
- Boil the pappardelle noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, brown the spicy Italian sausage.
- Add onions, garlic, bell peppers, and seasonings. Cook until fragrant.
- Pour in white wine, diced tomatoes, and cooked sausage. Let simmer.
- Finish by adding herbs, combining with noodles, and garnishing. Serve and enjoy!