These garlic butter ramen noodles are a quick and delicious meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. Made with only seven ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as an easy dinner option.
- The combination of creamy garlic butter and zucchini creates a delightful textural contrast in each bite, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- This recipe is versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or main course, making it ideal for both casual gatherings and more formal dinners.
- Using brown rice ramen noodles adds a unique twist with their vegan and gluten-free qualities, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
- The option to add soft-boiled or fried eggs elevates the dish's richness and protein content, providing a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks and families looking for a quick, comforting meal.
15 Minute Garlic Butter Ramen Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- 1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain. 2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and garlic. Cook until the garlic is golden and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the ginger, cooking another minute. Stir in the zucchini, cooking another 2-3 minutes, until the zucchini wilts into the butter. Stir in the ramen noodles, soy sauce, and basil. Gently toss to combine. Remove from the heat.3. Divide the noodles among bowls and top with sesame seeds, basil, and eggs, if desired. Eat immediately...enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 786 kcal |
Nutrition values are reproduced from the source recipe data and are not estimated by the pipeline.
Main Ingredients at a Glance
| Main ingredient | Amount | Role in the recipe |
|---|---|---|
| brown rice ramen noodles | 2-3 | Ramen Noodles: I love using brown rice ramen, which are vegan and gluten-free. You can find these noodles online either on Amazon or Thrive Market . Or you can purchase them at Whole Foods, Costco, and in many grocery stores as well. |
| salted butter | 6 tablespoons | Salted Butter: Use unsalted butter if you prefer a milder flavor. Salted butter adds an extra layer of depth to the dish without needing additional salt. |
| cloves garlic, minced or grated | 4 | Builds the recipe's main aroma and seasoning profile. |
| fresh grated ginger | 2 teaspoons | Fresh Grated Ginger: Fresh ginger provides a more intense and nuanced flavor compared to dried, making it perfect for this recipe where subtle nuances are appreciated. |
| small or 1 medium zucchini, grated | 2 | Contributes to the recipe's flavor, structure or final texture. |
| low sodium soy sauce | 1/4 cup | Contributes to the recipe's flavor, structure or final texture. |
| fresh basil, roughly chopped | 1/2 cup | Contributes to the recipe's flavor, structure or final texture. |
| toasted sesame seeds | Contributes to the recipe's flavor, structure or final texture. |
Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Used for | Recommended feature |
|---|---|---|
| Frying pan or skillet | Handles frying, browning or stovetop cooking. | A wide, heavy base with comfortable handles. |
| Large cooking pot | Provides room for boiling or simmering. | A stable base and a well-fitting lid. |
| Mixing bowl | Combines and holds ingredients during preparation. | A stable bowl with enough capacity for comfortable mixing. |
Ingredient Notes
- brown rice ramen noodles
- Ramen Noodles: I love using brown rice ramen, which are vegan and gluten-free. You can find these noodles online either on Amazon or Thrive Market . Or you can purchase them at Whole Foods, Costco, and in many grocery stores as well.
- salted butter
- Salted Butter: Use unsalted butter if you prefer a milder flavor. Salted butter adds an extra layer of depth to the dish without needing additional salt.
- fresh grated ginger
- Fresh Grated Ginger: Fresh ginger provides a more intense and nuanced flavor compared to dried, making it perfect for this recipe where subtle nuances are appreciated.
Optional Substitutions
- For a nuttier flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of salted.
- If you prefer a sweeter noodle base, add a teaspoon of sugar to the water when cooking the noodles.
- To enhance the umami flavor, sprinkle a pinch of nutritional yeast over the top before serving.
- Substitute the zucchini with finely chopped mushrooms for a different texture and taste.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a few drops of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the butter mixture.
Tips for the Best Results
- For a more flavorful base, consider adding a splash of miso or a few drops of sesame oil to the garlic butter mixture.
- If you prefer your ramen noodles crispier, lightly toast them in a dry skillet before adding the sauce for added texture.
- To make this dish even more nutritious, add some steamed broccoli florets along with the zucchini for extra vitamins and fiber.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture to give it a spicy kick.
- This will prevent them from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
- To make this dish more visually appealing, garnish with some sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added contrast and flavor.
- For those who prefer their ramen noodle dishes sweeter, consider adding a teaspoon of honey to the sauce mixture for a touch of sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the ramen noodles, as they can become mushy and lose their texture.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet with garlic and zucchini; this can cause them to steam instead of sautéing properly.
- Ensure your eggs are cooked just right—soft boiled or fried—to complement the dish without overpowering it.
- Overmixing the noodles can lead to a soupy consistency, so gently toss them in the sauce to maintain their texture.
- If using fresh basil, be sure to chop it finely and add it towards the end of cooking to prevent wilting.
Optional Variations
- Add a splash of sesame oil to the skillet for an extra burst of flavor.
- Top with sliced green onions or red pepper flakes for added heat and crunch.
- For a sweeter twist, drizzle a bit of honey over the garlic butter mixture before adding the noodles.
- Use fresh cilantro instead of basil for a different herbaceous note in your dish.
- Serve with a side of pickled ginger to complement the flavors without overpowering them.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these noodles in large bowls, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and a sprinkle of fresh basil. Soft boiled or fried eggs can be added for an extra protein boost. Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors.
Storage
The addition of toasted sesame seeds and optional soft-boiled or fried eggs can help keep the dish fresh longer, but it’s best to consume within this time frame for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Reheat
To gently reheat these noodles without compromising their texture, you can use a warm oven. This method ensures that the noodles retain their texture while warming up evenly.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish as it requires immediate consumption. Package the noodles, garlic butter mixture, and any extras in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare the ramen noodles for this recipe?
To prepare the ramen noodles, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package directions and then drain them.
What is the texture like when you mix in the zucchini with the garlic butter mixture?
When you add grated zucchini into the garlic-butter mixture, it will wilt down and become part of the creamy sauce. The zucchini adds a nice soft texture to the dish.
Can I serve these noodles cold or do they need to be eaten hot?
These noodles are best served immediately after preparation for the best texture and flavor. They are not meant to be served cold.
Are there any variations you can suggest for this recipe?
You could try adding a bit of red pepper flakes for some heat, or substitute the zucchini with carrots for a different vegetable base. For an extra touch, you might also consider using a different type of cheese in place of the soy sauce.
What can I do if I don't have brown rice ramen noodles?
If you don’t have brown rice ramen noodles, you could use regular ramen noodles instead. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time and then drain them.
What should I do with any leftovers from this recipe?
They are best reheated gently over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to rehydrate them.
Final Thoughts
The combination of brown rice noodles, caramelized garlic, ginger, zucchini, soy sauce, and fresh basil creates a comforting yet flavorful meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or as a light dinner option. Enjoy the burst of freshness from the soft-boiled eggs and the subtle crunch from the toasted sesame seeds.