Noodles – they’re a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. They’re versatile, easy to cook with, and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, noodles have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through 18 flavorful noodle side dish recipes that are perfect for any meal. From spicy peanut noodles with cucumber to garlic butter parmesan noodles, each dish is carefully crafted to bring out the best in your favorite noodle dishes. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or more complex and involved, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s get started and explore these 18 delicious noodle side dish recipes!
Garlic Butter Parmesan Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of noodles with the decadence of garlic butter and parmesan cheese. Perfect as a comforting main dish or side.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the noodles and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Soy Cold Noodle Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the nutty flavor of sesame with the savory taste of soy, perfect for hot days when you need a light and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
3. Add cooked noodles, chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Stir in diced cucumber and bell peppers.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber
Spicy Peanut Noodles with Cucumber Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired noodles, spicy peanut sauce, and crunchy cucumber, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, sriracha, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the peanut sauce in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked noodles to the pan and toss with the spicy peanut sauce.
5. Top with sliced cucumber and chopped scallions (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Chili Oil Noodles with Scallions
Elevate your noodle game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic chili oil with the crunch of scallions. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (rice noodles or udon work well)
– 1/4 cup garlic chili oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat garlic chili oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add soy sauce and sesame oil; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add thinly sliced onion and scallions; cook until onions are translucent.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the garlic chili oil mixture; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Orzo with Feta
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the tangy zip of lemon, the earthiness of fresh herbs, and the salty punch of feta. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with herb mixture.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Kimchi Ramen Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the best of Korean and Japanese cuisine, ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chopped kimchi and cooked chicken or tofu. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
6. Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet or wok. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe. This dish combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the spiciness of Thai red curry, all wrapped up in a satisfying noodle package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly (5-7 minutes).
6. Serve noodles with curry sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Mushroom Lo Mein
This savory noodle dish combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the pungency of garlic, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its rich aroma and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked noodles with the mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Soba Noodles with Dipping Sauce
Beat the heat with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the simplicity of soba noodles with a tangy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 package soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Add the chopped green onions to the dipping sauce and stir to combine.
4. Serve the cold soba noodles chilled, accompanied by the tangy dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the flavors of bacon, ranch dressing, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and grated cheddar cheese until smooth.
4. Pour the cheesy ranch mixture over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Vermicelli Bowl with Herbs
Savor the flavors of Vietnam with this light and refreshing vermicelli bowl, loaded with fragrant herbs and a hint of sweetness. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted peanuts or cashews (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook vermicelli noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and garlic.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked vermicelli, herb mixture, and chopped herbs.
4. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with toasted nuts (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Egg Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the nutty flavor of brown butter, the earthiness of sage, and the comforting warmth of egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter to the saucepan and stir until melted.
4. Add the chopped sage leaves to the saucepan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the saucepan and stir to combine.
6. Toss the cooked egg noodles with the brown butter sauce until well coated.
7. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Miso Udon with Greens
In this recipe, we combine the comforting warmth of udon noodles with the bold flavors of spicy miso and fresh greens for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package udon noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons miso paste
– 1 teaspoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 4 cups mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and arugula)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and ginger. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste and gochujang. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked udon noodles to the skillet and toss to coat with the spicy miso sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with mixed greens and a sprinkle of salt and pepper as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Sriracha Noodle Stir-Fry
A sweet and spicy fusion of Asian-inspired flavors, this Honey Sriracha Noodle Stir-Fry is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup noodles (rice or soba work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large wok or skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry until tender (5-6 minutes).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and sriracha sauce. Pour into the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodles with Chicken
Beat the heat with this quick and easy recipe that combines savory chicken with a tangy sesame sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of cool noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba or rice noodles
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, sesame sauce, and chopped scallions. Toss to coat.
4. Add noodles to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Scallion Oil Noodles
This recipe combines the pungency of garlic and scallions with the richness of oil, creating a flavorful and aromatic sauce to elevate your noodles. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz noodles (your choice of type)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the thinly sliced scallions and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with the garlic scallion oil mixture.
6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lime Cilantro Rice Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of lime, cilantro, and rice noodles for a light and zesty meal or snack. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a burst of citrusy goodness!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked white rice, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and honey. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add the cooked rice noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Pasta with Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish that combines the earthy flavor of truffles with the nutty taste of Parmesan. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine truffle oil and reserved pasta water over medium heat. Stir to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the truffle-infused sauce.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these 18 mouthwatering noodle side dish recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Parmesan Noodles and Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, to international inspirations like Thai Coconut Curry Noodles and Vietnamese Vermicelli Bowl with Herbs, there’s something for every taste bud. These flavorful dishes are perfect for accompanying your favorite meals or as a quick and easy main course. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, these noodle recipes will satisfy your cravings.
