Italian Drunken Noodles

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Introduction:
Experience the flavors of Italy with a twist in this tantalizing dish of Italian Drunken Noodles. Inspired by the Thai favorite, this Italian version features al dente pasta tossed in a savory sauce infused with the richness of Italian herbs, tomatoes, and red wine. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients:

For the Italian Drunken Noodles:

  • 12 ounces (340g) fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot)
  • 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Cook the fettuccine or spaghetti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the skillet, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the Wine and Tomatoes:

  • Pour the dry red wine into the skillet, and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Season and Toss:

  • Sprinkle the dried oregano and dried basil over the sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss until the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

5. Serve and Garnish:

  • Transfer the Italian Drunken Noodles to serving plates or a large platter.
  • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
  • Serve immediately, and enjoy this delicious twist on classic Italian flavors!

Tips for Success:

  • Use a good quality dry red wine for the best flavor. The wine will add depth and richness to the sauce.
  • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken.
  • For extra heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (approximately)
  • Calories: Approximately 350-400
  • Total Fat: Approximately 8-10g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 1-2g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 0-10mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 300-400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 60-70g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 5-7g
  • Sugars: Approximately 8-10g
  • Protein: Approximately 10-12g

Recommendation:
Serve these Italian Drunken Noodles with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette and a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce for a complete Italian-inspired meal. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner for two or shared with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting appeal!

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