Noodles Almondine is a delightful twist on a classic French side dish that brings together tender noodles and toasted almonds for a perfect balance of texture and flavor. This recipe highlights the nutty crunch of almonds paired with buttery noodles, creating a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
We love how quick and easy this recipe is while still delivering impressive taste. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can elevate your pasta game and add a touch of sophistication to your meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, fish, or enjoying it on its own, these noodles Almondine are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the Best Noodles Almondine, we gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together for a dish rich in texture and taste. Below, we break down each component to ensure precision and balance in our recipe.
Noodles
Choose a pasta that holds sauce well and offers a smooth bite. We recommend:
- 6 ounces of egg noodles or linguine, cooked al dente and drained
- Salt for the boiling water (about 1 tablespoon)
Almonds
The toasted almonds provide the signature crunch and nuttiness:
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted until golden
- Optional: 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil for toasting
Vegetables and Herbs
Freshness and color come from these elements, which brighten the dish:
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 small shallot, minced for subtle sweetness
- Optional: zest of 1 lemon to add brightness
Sauces and Seasonings
We rely on a minimalist yet flavorful sauce to enhance the noodles and almonds:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 3 tablespoons unsalted butter | Adds richness and smooth texture | |
| 1-2 cloves garlic, minced | Provides aromatic depth | |
| Salt and freshly cracked black pepper | Seasoning to taste | |
| Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon) | Adds acidity and fresh lift |
Optional Add-ins
Customize your Noodles Almondine with these additions for extra flavor or protein:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a savory boost
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach for earthiness and color
- Toasted pine nuts for extra crunch variation
- Cooked chicken or shrimp to transform the dish into a main course
With these measured ingredients at hand, we are ready to start crafting this elegant and satisfying dish.
Equipment Needed
To make the Best Noodles Almondine perfectly, having the right equipment on hand ensures a smooth, efficient cooking process and helps us achieve the ideal texture and flavor.
Essential Tools for Cooking and Assembly
- Large pot
Use a spacious pot to boil the noodles. This gives the pasta room to cook al dente without sticking.
- Colander or strainer
Necessary for draining the cooked noodles thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting our buttery almond sauce.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
A wide skillet allows even toasting of almonds and sautéing the shallots and garlic in butter for that classic Almondine flavor.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
For gently stirring the noodles and sauce without breaking the noodles or scratching the pan surface.
Measuring and Prep Tools
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring cups | Measure butter, almonds, parsley | Accurate ingredient ratios |
| Measuring spoons | For salt, pepper, lemon juice | Ensures flavor balance |
| Chef’s knife | Chop parsley, mince shallot | Precise and uniform cuts |
| Cutting board | Safe surface for chopping | Use separate one for nuts |
| Grater or zester | Optional lemon zest, Parmesan | Adds brightness and umami |
Optional but Helpful Gear
- Small bowl to hold toasted almonds before mixing
- Serving dish to plate the noodles elegantly
- Tongs to toss noodles gently ensuring even coating with sauce
Prep Work
Getting the Best Noodles Almondine starts with careful preparation. We focus on each element to ensure perfect texture and balanced flavors.
Preparing the Noodles
We begin by cooking 6 ounces of egg noodles or linguine to an al dente texture—firm to the bite but cooked through. Follow these steps precisely:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the noodles and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, typically 7 to 9 minutes.
- Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly with warm water to remove excess starch. This step ensures the noodles don’t clump when tossed later.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Water Salt Ratio | 1 tablespoon salt per 4 quarts |
| Cooking Time | 7 to 9 minutes (al dente) |
| Rinsing | Brief warm rinse after draining |
Toasting the Almonds
To bring out their deep, nutty flavor and achieve a satisfying crunch, we toast 1/2 cup of sliced almonds with precision:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat—avoid high heat to prevent burning.
- Add the sliced almonds in a single layer.
- Toast for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and emit a fragrant aroma.
- Remove from heat promptly and transfer to a small bowl to cool. The residual heat can continue cooking the almonds if left in the pan.
Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on the almonds; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds.
Chopping Vegetables and Herbs
Fresh aromatics and herbs provide the bright notes essential for our noodles almondine. Prepare the following:
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley — chop just before use to maintain vibrant color.
- 1 minced shallot — finely mince to evenly distribute its mild onion flavor.
- (Optional) Lemon zest – grate zest from one lemon using a microplane for a zingy freshness.
We use a sharp chef’s knife and stable cutting board for efficient chopping. Organizing ingredients into small bowls at this stage speeds up the cooking process and keeps everything within reach.
Remember: Precision in chopping helps the flavors meld seamlessly into the butter sauce.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to prepare the Best Noodles Almondine with the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Cooking the Noodles
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to season the water.
- Add 6 ounces of egg noodles or linguine to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook the noodles for 7 to 8 minutes or until al dente — tender but still firm to the bite.
- Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and avoid clumping.
- Set the noodles aside in the colander while we prepare the other components.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Boil water | 4 quarts with 1 tbsp salt |
| 2 | Add noodles | 6 oz egg noodles or linguine |
| 3 | Cook noodles | 7–8 minutes to al dente |
| 4 | Drain and rinse | Use cold water to stop cooking |
| 5 | Set aside | Keep noodles ready for combining |
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Heat 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and slightly bubbling.
- Add 1 minced shallot and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until translucent, releasing a mild sweetness.
- Stir in minced garlic (about 1 clove) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Toss in 1/2 cup of sliced almonds and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and smell nutty. Be vigilant as almonds can burn quickly.
Combining Ingredients
- Reduce the skillet heat to low.
- Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the almonds, garlic, and shallots.
- Toss gently using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to coat the noodles evenly with the buttery almond mixture.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Finish by squeezing 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice over the noodles and optionally add a touch of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
- Toss everything again until well combined and heated through.
Tip: For extra richness, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese before serving or customize the dish with sautéed vegetables or your favorite cooked protein.
We now have the Best Noodles Almondine ready to enjoy with a perfect balance of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and fresh vibrance.
Assembly and Serving
Bringing together all components of our Best Noodles Almondine involves careful tossing and thoughtful garnishing to enhance texture and flavor. Let’s ensure every bite delivers buttery richness and nutty crunch perfectly balanced.
Tossing the Noodles Almondine
After cooking and preparing all ingredients, it’s time to toss the noodles almondine to infuse the delicate flavors evenly:
- Place the drained, al dente noodles in the large skillet with the sautéed shallots, garlic, and toasted almonds.
- Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter melted over low heat to coat the noodles gently.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for vibrant freshness.
- Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish and elevate flavors.
- Using a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, toss everything gently but thoroughly for 1-2 minutes until well combined and heated through.
Proper tossing prevents clumping and ensures every noodle is enveloped in buttery almond goodness.
Garnishing Tips
Garnishing takes our noodles almondine to the next level visually and flavor-wise. Consider these tips:
- Lightly sprinkle additional toasted almonds on top for extra crunch texture contrast.
- Add a pinch of lemon zest for a fresh citrus aroma that complements the lemon juice added during tossing.
- Optionally, grate a small amount of Parmesan cheese right before serving for a creamy, salty finish.
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley can be placed decoratively for a pop of green color.
Each garnish layer amplifies the sensory appeal—eye-catching presentation enhances flavor anticipation.
Serving Suggestions
Our Best Noodles Almondine shines beautifully as either a starring side or a complete dish. Let’s explore serving options suited for various meals:
| Serving Style | Description | Pairing Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Elegant Side Dish | Serve a portion complementing main entrées | Roast chicken, grilled salmon, steamed asparagus |
| Light Vegetarian Main | Add sautéed vegetables or extra herbs for bulk | Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes |
| Protein-Enhanced Meal | Stir in cooked shrimp, diced chicken, or tofu | Pan-seared shrimp with garlic, grilled tofu with soy glaze |
Serve immediately on warm plates to maintain heat and texture. Garnish last-minute for best presentation. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon pairs exceptionally well with this dish’s buttery and nutty profile.
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage
To enjoy the Best Noodles Almondine Recipe any time, we can prepare it ahead and store it properly without sacrificing texture or flavor. Here are key pointers for successful make-ahead and storage:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Cook noodles al dente as instructed. Undercooking slightly ensures they don’t become mushy upon reheating.
- Toast almonds separately and keep them aside at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
- Prepare the almondine sauce and sautéed shallots/garlic separately. Store them tightly covered.
- When ready to serve, gently reheat the noodles, sauce, and toasted almonds together in a skillet over low heat to reassemble the dish. Freshly chopped parsley and lemon juice should be added last for brightness.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Type | Container | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Noodles Almondine | Airtight container | 3-4 days (refrigerator) | Cool noodles completely before storing |
| Toasted Almonds | Airtight container | Up to 1 week (pantry) | Store away from heat and moisture |
| Almondine Sauce & Sautéed Aromatics | Covered bowl or jar | 2-3 days (refrigerator) | Keep refrigerated separately to maintain freshness |
Reheating Tips
- Reheat gently on the stovetop using a low flame, stirring often to prevent drying out.
- Add a splash of water or broth if the noodles appear too dry during reheating.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to revive the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Important Notes
“To preserve the signature buttery richness and crunchy almond texture, keep toasted almonds separate until reheating the dish.”
Following these tips lets us enjoy the Best Noodles Almondine with fresh taste and ideal texture anytime we desire.
Conclusion
Noodles Almondine brings a sophisticated yet simple twist to your pasta lineup. Its balance of buttery richness and crunchy toasted almonds makes it a standout dish that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for any meal.
With a few fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a flavorful dish that impresses without stress. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s a recipe worth keeping in our culinary rotation.
By following the tips and techniques shared, we ensure every bite delivers that perfect texture and vibrant flavor. Let’s enjoy this elegant dish anytime with confidence and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Noodles Almondine?
Noodles Almondine is a French-inspired pasta dish featuring tender noodles tossed with toasted almonds, butter, garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs. It offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors in a simple, elegant recipe.
What type of noodles work best for Noodles Almondine?
Egg noodles or linguine are recommended, cooked al dente for the best texture. Using about 6 ounces ensures the right balance with the toasted almonds and sauce.
How do I toast almonds properly for this dish?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning, which can make the almonds bitter.
Can I add proteins or vegetables to Noodles Almondine?
Yes, this dish is versatile. You can include sautéed vegetables, grilled chicken, shrimp, or other proteins to customize and make it a complete meal.
How should I store leftover Noodles Almondine?
Store noodles and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep toasted almonds in a separate container to maintain their crunch, and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What are the key seasonings in Noodles Almondine?
The main seasonings are salt, pepper, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and finely chopped parsley, which brighten and balance the rich buttery almonds.
Is Noodles Almondine suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the dish is naturally vegetarian, especially when served without added proteins. It makes a light, flavorful main or side for vegetarian meals.
How do I ensure the noodles don’t stick together?
Cook noodles al dente in plenty of salted boiling water, rinse briefly with warm water after draining, and toss immediately with the almondine sauce to prevent clumping.
What wine pairs well with Noodles Almondine?
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs well, complementing the buttery, nutty flavors without overpowering the dish.
Can Noodles Almondine be made ahead of time?
Yes. Undercook noodles slightly, store toasted almonds separately, and refrigerate sauce and aromatics. Reheat gently, adding fresh parsley and lemon juice just before serving.