Spicy Chili Garlic Linguine
🍽 Serves 2–3
Flat noodles tossed in a bold, glossy sauce with heat, umami, and a fresh green onion punch.
📝 Ingredients
8 oz linguine (or other flat noodles)
2 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil)
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1½ tbsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for rich color)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1½ tsp brown sugar
¼ cup water or pasta water
2–3 green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
Optional topping: toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts
🔥 Instructions
Cook the noodles:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine until al dente, drain, and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Make the sauce:
In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the heat:
Stir in chili flakes and cook for 15–30 seconds (don’t burn!). Immediately add soy sauces, oyster sauce, vinegar, sugar, and water/pasta water. Simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy.
Toss it all:
Add the cooked noodles and most of the green onions. Toss to coat thoroughly. Let it sizzle and absorb the sauce for 1–2 minutes more.
Plate and garnish:
Serve on a simple white plate with a few artful sauce drips. Scatter extra green onions and sesame seeds on top.
🌶️ Tips & Variations
Extra protein? Add sautéed shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken.
More crunch? Add julienned cucumbers or bean sprouts before serving.
Less spicy? Cut back on chili flakes or balance it with extra sugar and vinegar.
Let me know if you’d like a version with a creamy or peanut-based twist!