Buttered Noodles Recipe

Pasta: Any type of pasta will work for this recipe, whether it's spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Vegan butter: A plant-based alternative to regular butter, providing a rich and creamy texture without any dairy.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle yet flavorful garlic taste to the noodles without the need for fresh garlic.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust to your taste preference.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the noodles. Adjust according to your taste.

When cooking pasta, ensure to use a large pot with plenty of water to allow the noodles to move freely and cook evenly. Adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the pasta. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining. This can be added back to the pot with the vegan butter and seasonings to create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to the noodles.

• pasta - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb, gluten-free alternative that still provide a satisfying texture.

• vegan butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor and healthy fats, making it a great alternative to vegan butter.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes add a bit of heat and complexity to the dish.

• Allow the buttered noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Transfer the cooled noodles to an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The buttered noodles will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of storage time. Frozen buttered noodles can be stored for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat the noodles in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
• Stir occasionally until the noodles are heated through. You can also microwave them in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• For added flavor, consider tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of vegan butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Once the butter melts, add the leftover buttered noodles.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the noodles seem dry.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the buttered noodles in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep the noodles from drying out.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Check if the noodles are heated thoroughly; if not, continue in 30-second increments.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the buttered noodles in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep the noodles moist.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  6. Remove from the oven, stir, and serve hot.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
  2. Place the buttered noodles in the steamer basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
  4. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Pot: Use this to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

• Colander: This is essential for draining the cooked pasta.

• Stirring spoon: Use this to mix the pasta with the vegan butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Measuring spoons: These are necessary for measuring out the vegan butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Stove: You'll need this to heat the pot and cook the pasta.

• Serving bowl: Use this to serve the finished buttered noodles.

Pre-cook the pasta: Cook the pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it quickly when ready to use.

Use a microwave: Melt the vegan butter in the microwave while the pasta cooks to save time.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper before starting to streamline the process.

One-pot method: Cook and mix everything in one pot to reduce cleanup time.

Quick drain: Use a pot with a built-in strainer lid to quickly drain the pasta.