1 Serving Garlic Noodles contains 612 calories, making it a filling and satisfying meal. With its robust garlic flavor, this dish is a favorite among noodle lovers.

In addition to its delicious taste, Garlic Noodles also contain carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats from garlic and olive oil. With the right ingredients and preparation method, this dish can be both tasty and nutritious.

In this article, we'll explore what Garlic Noodles are, their nutritional value, and how to cook them in different variations. We'll also give tips on what to serve with this dish and where to order them if dining out.

What are Garlic Noodles?

Garlic Noodles is a Chinese-American fusion dish that originated in San Francisco. It is typically made with egg noodles or spaghetti, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Some variations may include additional ingredients like shrimp, chicken, or vegetables. This dish is known for its strong garlic flavor, which is achieved by frying minced garlic in butter or oil before mixing it with the cooked noodles. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish and helps to balance the garlicky taste. Garlic Noodles are often served as a side dish at Chinese-American restaurants or enjoyed as a main course at home. They are quick and easy to make, making them a popular choice for busy weeknights.

How many Calories are in Garlic Noodles?

Garlic Noodles can be a high-calorie dish due to its use of butter and cheese. A serving of Garlic Noodles contains approximately 612 calories, with 23 grams of fat, 81 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of protein. While this calorie count may seem high, Garlic Noodles can fit into a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation or paired with lighter side dishes like steamed vegetables or a salad. To further reduce the calorie content of this dish, you can use a lighter sauce or swap out the butter for a healthier fat like olive oil.

What are the Ingredients in Garlic Noodles?

To make Garlic Noodles, you will need spaghetti or egg noodles, garlic, butter or olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. For a more complex flavor, you can also add in other ingredients like shrimp, chicken, or vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms. The key to getting the perfect Garlic Noodles is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the garlic just until it turns golden brown. Overcooking the garlic can make it bitter and ruin the dish.

Is Garlic Noodles Healthy?

Garlic Noodles can provide some health benefits, especially when made with olive oil and fresh garlic. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties, helping to fight off infections and inflammation. Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats that can improve heart health and reduce cholesterol levels. However, Garlic Noodles can also be high in calories and sodium, especially when consumed in large amounts. To make this dish healthier, you can use whole wheat noodles, reduce the amount of cheese, and add in more vegetables for added fiber and vitamins.

Are Garlic Noodles Spicy?

Garlic Noodles are not traditionally a spicy dish, but some recipes may call for spicy ingredients like red pepper flakes or chili oil. If you prefer a spicy Garlic Noodles, you can add in these ingredients to taste or simply sprinkle on some hot sauce before serving. For those who do not enjoy spicy foods, the dish can be made without any heat and still taste delicious.

How to Cook Garlic Noodles?

Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, in a pan, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add in minced garlic and sautée for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat and mix in cooked noodles, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined. Serve hot and garnish with additional Parmesan or parsley if desired.

What to Serve with Garlic Noodles?

Garlic Noodles can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside other Chinese-American favorites. Some great side dish ideas include steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy, fried rice, or Chinese-style dumplings. A refreshing side salad can also help to balance out the richness of the Garlic Noodles.

Where to Order Garlic Noodles?

Garlic Noodles are a popular dish at Chinese-American and Italian-American restaurants in the United States. You can often find them on the menu at places like P.F. Chang's, The Cheesecake Factory, and Olive Garden. If you prefer to order takeout, many local Chinese or Italian restaurants may also offer Garlic Noodles on their menu. Delivery apps like Grubhub or Uber Eats can also help you find and order Garlic Noodles from your area.

What are the Variations of Garlic Noodles?

While the traditional Garlic Noodles recipe calls for spaghetti or egg noodles, you can also experiment with different types of pasta like fettuccine or linguine. Some variations may also include additional ingredients like chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like asparagus, peas, or bell peppers. You can also adjust the level of garlic and cheese to your liking for a more personalized taste.

What are the Benefits of Garlic?

Garlic is a widely used ingredient in various cuisines due to its distinct flavor and aroma. It is also known for its various health benefits. Garlic contains compounds called allicin and sulfur that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Garlic can also help to boost the immune system and fight off infections. It is often used as a natural remedy for colds and flu.