Name: 20 Minute Red Curry Basil Garlic Oil Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1/2 cup sesame or peanut oil; 1/3 cup green onions, sliced; 1-3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 3-4 cloves garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste; 1/2 cup chopped fresh Thai or regular basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 4 squares brown rice ramen noodles, or 6 ounces rice noodles; 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce

Why You’ll Love 20 Minute Red Curry Basil Garlic Oil Noodles Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something quick but still full of fresh, vibrant flavor. The hot oil infused with green onions, curry paste, garlic, and ginger creates a rich base that coats the noodles beautifully. Fresh basil and cilantro add brightness, while the red curry paste brings gentle heat and depth. It is easy to customize, comes together in just 20 minutes, and works well as a light main dish or flavorful side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup sesame or peanut oil
1/3 cup green onions, sliced
1-3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
3-4 cloves garlic, grated
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
1/2 cup chopped fresh Thai or regular basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
4 squares brown rice ramen noodles, or 6 ounces rice noodles
1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce

Directions

In a skillet, cook the sesame oil and green onions over medium heat until very fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in the red curry paste. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to bloom in the oil.
In a large bowl, combine the grated garlic, grated ginger, chopped basil, chopped cilantro, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Pour the hot oil mixture over the herbs and aromatics in the bowl.
Cook the noodles according to the package directions, then drain well.
Add the warm noodles to the bowl along with the tamari or soy sauce. Toss until the noodles are evenly coated.
Serve immediately with additional green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes 20 minutes total to prepare. That includes a few minutes to infuse the oil, a short cook time for the curry paste, and enough time to boil and toss the noodles together for a quick finish.

Variations

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your taste or what you have on hand. For extra protein, add cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, tofu, or a fried egg on top. To include more vegetables, toss in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or snap peas. For a nuttier finish, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds before serving. If you prefer a milder dish, use less red curry paste and skip the red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase both to suit your preference.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as they sit, making leftovers especially tasty. To reheat, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of water or soy sauce to loosen them up. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of rice noodles?

Yes, you can use regular spaghetti, linguine, or other thin noodles if that is what you have available. The flavor will still be delicious, though the texture will be a little different.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It can be as mild or spicy as you like. The heat depends on how much red curry paste and red pepper flakes you use.

What type of basil works best?

Thai basil adds a slightly sweet, peppery flavor, but regular basil works well too and still gives the dish freshness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use rice noodles and make sure your tamari or soy sauce is certified gluten-free.

What oil should I use?

Sesame oil adds a rich, toasty flavor, while peanut oil offers a more neutral base. Either one works well in this recipe.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely. Tofu, shrimp, chicken, or even sliced beef pair nicely with the bold flavors in these noodles.

How do I keep the herbs from losing their flavor?

Pouring the hot oil over the herbs helps release their aroma while preserving their fresh taste. Serve the noodles soon after mixing for the best flavor.

Can I make these noodles ahead of time?

Yes, but they are best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store them chilled and reheat gently before serving.

What can I use instead of cilantro?

If you are not a fan of cilantro, you can simply leave it out or replace it with more basil or a little fresh parsley.

Why are my noodles sticking together?

This usually happens if they sit too long after draining. Toss them with the sauce and oil while they are still warm to help keep them loose and evenly coated.

Conclusion

These Red Curry Basil Garlic Oil Noodles are proof that a simple recipe can still be incredibly bold and satisfying. With fragrant oil, tender noodles, fresh herbs, and just the right amount of heat, this dish is an easy way to bring big flavor to the table in very little time. Whether you make it as written or customize it with your favorite add-ins, it is a quick recipe you will want to keep on repeat.