Dive into a culinary adventure with this decadent Surf & Turf Garlic Noodles recipe! It’s a delightful fusion of tender steak and succulent shrimp, all tossed together with perfectly cooked noodles in a savory garlic sauce. This dish is a symphony of textures and flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Surf & Turf Garlic Noodles recipe is a guaranteed winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it combines the best of both worlds – the rich, hearty flavors of steak and the delicate sweetness of shrimp. The garlic sauce adds a layer of umami that ties everything together beautifully. Beyond the incredible taste, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. It requires minimal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or swapping out the proteins. This dish is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1/2 lb sirloin steak, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside. Ensure that the noodles are not overcooked to maintain a firm texture that will hold up well when tossed with the sauce and proteins.
Step 2: Season the steak cubes generously with salt and black pepper. This is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over high heat. Sear the seasoned steak cubes until they are nicely browned on all sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, this should take about 3–4 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
Step 4: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can result in a bitter taste. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for about 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly until the noodles are evenly coated. Add the cooked steak and shrimp back into the skillet and mix gently to combine. Ensure that the proteins are heated through.
Step 6: Transfer the Surf & Turf Garlic Noodles to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Complexity: Medium
- Overall Deliciousness: High
Serving Suggestions:
This Surf & Turf Garlic Noodles dish is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the noodles. Steamed or sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, or asparagus also make excellent accompaniments. For an appetizer, try spring rolls or dumplings.
Tips:
- Noodle Choice: Lo mein noodles are traditionally used in this dish, but spaghetti or linguine can also be substituted.
- Steak Doneness: Adjust the cooking time of the steak to your preferred level of doneness.
- Shrimp Size: Use medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level of the dish.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the dish. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas all work well.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The noodles and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 1200mg
Conclusion
This Surf & Turf Garlic Noodles recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the best of land and sea. The succulent steak and shrimp, combined with the rich and savory garlic sauce, create a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to embark on a delicious culinary adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help them brown better and prevent them from becoming waterlogged.
Q2: Can I substitute the steak with another type of meat?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of steak, you can use chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the steak and shrimp. Add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli to make it a more substantial meal. You can also add tofu or tempeh for added protein.
Q4: How long does this dish keep in the refrigerator?
A: This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q5: Can I add other sauces to the garlic sauce?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different sauces to customize the flavor of the dish. Some popular additions include chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or black bean sauce. Just be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
