If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dish that captures the essence of cafeteria comfort food, look no further than this cafeteria noodles recipe. With a delightful mix of vegetables and savory sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, these noodles will transport you back to your favorite school days. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process!
Ingredients
- 200g noodles (spaghetti or egg noodles)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 10g
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped bell pepper and julienned carrot; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for another 3 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked noodles, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce over the noodles; stir well.
- Drizzle sesame oil on top and give a final toss.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the noodles with gluten-free options or use zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter dish. Instead of broccoli, feel free to add snap peas or spinach for variation.
Serving and Pairings
These cafeteria noodles pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or steamed dumplings 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 pan with a splash of water. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy; aim for al dente.
- Not heating the oil enough before adding vegetables can result in soggy stir-fry.
- Using too much sauce can make the dish overly salty.
- Forgetting to garnish can mean missing out on fresh flavors.
- Not tasting as you cook can lead to unbalanced flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste.
- Add protein like shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal.
- Use a wok for better heat distribution when stir-frying.
FAQs
Can I use instant noodles for this recipe?
Yes, instant noodles can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they usually cook faster. Rinse them after cooking to remove excess starch.
What vegetables can I add?
You can add a variety of vegetables like snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use whatever you have on hand for a personalized touch.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, by using vegetable-based sauces and omitting any animal products, this dish can easily be made vegan.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodles and vegetables ahead of time. Just combine and stir-fry before serving.
What should I serve with cafeteria noodles?
These noodles pair well with grilled meats, tofu, or a side salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This cafeteria noodles recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also incredibly delicious. With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Whether for lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Cafeteria Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g noodles spaghetti or egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 carrot julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped bell pepper and julienned carrot; cook for 3 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for another 3 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked noodles, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce over the noodles; stir well.
- Drizzle sesame oil on top and give a final toss.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
