These noodles are what I call “college student” food done healthier…thanks to the addition of brown rice ramen and plenty of summer zucchini. And while this recipe is the simplest, I can promise you that it’s also delicious. It’s a recipe you’ll make time and time again. Maybe on a rainy night (it’s currently downpouring) when you just need a bowl full of comfort in the form of buttered noodles. Truly the perfect easy Monday night dinner to enjoy.
The Inspiration.
Growing up there were many summer nights that my mom would request buttered noodles tossed with my dad’s garden basil for dinner. Anyone who knows my mom knows that she practically survives off of bread and noodles with the addition of hot chocolate. Yes, some fruits and vegetables are mixed in too, but my mom loves noodles, pasta, and bread. Seeing as we spent a whole lot of time together growing up, I too love a simple bowl of buttered noodles with fresh basil tossed into the mix. And Asher does as well. Apparently this “buttered noodle” trait runs with the girls of the family. My brothers could care less about any kind of noodle that doesn’t come with a side of meat.
Anyway, this is, of course, a simple concept. But every summer I try to come up with a new way to make buttered noodles feel special and exciting again. This year I’m pulling out an oldie recipe and giving it new life, enter these ramen noodles. I first made these noodles over four summers ago and had completely forgotten about them. But when I walked over to the garden the other day and saw all the basil I was suddenly hit with a round of deja vu. And thus the idea to remake these noodles was born. Garlic ramen, but with the addition of basil, shredded zucchini…to incorporate summer vegetables, and a splash of soy sauce. Was it too simple of an idea? Maybe. But does it sound delicious? Yes…so very delicious! So I went for it, and now we have 15-minute garlic butter ramen noodles to enjoy for dinner tonight. It’s going to be good.
The quick recipe run-down.
First, things first, the noodles. Of course, you can also use whatever your favorite brand of ramen is…hello to a little Top Ramen. That works too! Just discard the seasoning packet. You won’t need it for this recipe (though, in thinking about it, I imagine that could be good as well).
While the noodles are cooking, start in on the butter. If you can find it, use cultured butter (sometimes referred to as European butter). It’s my favorite butter to use for both cooking and baking, I especially love Vermont Creamery’s Cultured Butter. I’d also recommend my other go-to butter, Land O’Lakes Extra Creamy Salted Butter. Now, melt the butter in a pan. Add the garlic and let it get golden and caramelized (the kitchen will smell like garlic butter…a wonderful thing). Toss in some fresh ginger and shredded zucchini. Now add the noodles, a splash of soy sauce, and finish it off with all that fresh summer basil. The basil is KEY here so please do not skimp on it. And please, use fresh. Trust me, it’s worth a market run for good fresh basil as it adds all the flavor to these noodles. Serve the buttered noodles with a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds, and if you’d like, a soft boiled or fried egg. Simplest summer dinner, but every twirl of noodles just kind of melts in your mouth. Think buttery, slightly garlicky noodles, kicked up with ginger, seasoned with the slightest amount of soy sauce (that brings just the right amount of salty umami flavor), and heavy on the basil. It’s all just delicious. Enjoy your 15-minute noodle dinner guys!
Looking for other summer ramen recipes? Here are a few ideas: 30 Minute Caramelized Shallot Beef Ramen Noodles 20 Minute Ramen Carbonara Thai Peanut Chicken Ramen Noodle Salad Lastly, if you make these 15 minute garlic butter ramen noodles, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
