Experience the satisfying taste of cafeteria noodles, a dish that combines simplicity and flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or a casual get-together. The noodles are tossed with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce that will remind you of your favorite cafeteria meals. Ready in just a few minutes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
200g spaghetti or egg noodles, 1 cup mixed bell peppers (sliced), 1 cup carrots (julienned), 2 green onions (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste, fresh cilantro for garnish.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 350 calories, 10g protein, 45g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 5g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the noodles according to package instructions.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add sliced bell peppers and carrots to the skillet, cooking until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the skillet with vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce over the noodles and mix well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious cafeteria noodles!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the spaghetti with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for a different texture. Additionally, feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or broccoli.
Serving and Pairings
Cafeteria noodles pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein. They also go well with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or stir-fry in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent sticking. Freezing is not recommended as the noodles may become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not draining the noodles properly can make the dish watery.
- Skipping the oil can cause the noodles to stick together.
- Using too much soy sauce can overpower the dish.
- Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland noodles.
Helpful Tips
- Cook noodles al dente for better texture.
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook.
- Use a wok for better heat distribution.
- Experiment with different sauces for variety.
- Add protein to make it a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, you can use any noodles you prefer, such as rice noodles, soba noodles, or even whole wheat pasta, depending on your dietary needs.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! The cafeteria noodles are vegetarian. You can easily make them vegan by omitting any animal-based toppings.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the dish while cooking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the noodles fresh for optimal texture.
What can I serve with cafeteria noodles?
These noodles pair well with grilled meats, tofu, and a variety of salads or appetizers like spring rolls.
Conclusion
Cafeteria noodles are not just a nostalgic dish but a quick and delicious meal option. With this easy recipe, you can create a flavorful dish in no time, perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own!
Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or egg noodles
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup carrots julienned
- 2 green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the noodles according to package instructions.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add sliced bell peppers and carrots to the skillet, cooking until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the skillet with vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce over the noodles and mix well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious cafeteria noodles!
