Vegan Garlic Noodles (5 Ingredients, 15 Minutes)

There are nights when you want comfort food without the effort. When you crave something warm, slurpable, garlicky, and deeply satisfying—but you don’t want to pull out ten spices, three pans, and your entire pantry to make it happen. That’s exactly where these Vegan Garlic Noodles (5 Ingredients, 15 Minutes) shine.

This recipe is the definition of simple done right. With just five everyday ingredients and a single pot, you get glossy, savory noodles coated in a rich garlic-infused sauce that tastes far more complex than it should. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a secret—too easy to be this good.

Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or you’ve been vegan for years, this quick plant-based dinner will earn a permanent place in your weeknight rotation. It’s affordable, customizable, and endlessly comforting.

Let’s make magic out of five ingredients.

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Why You’ll Love These Vegan Garlic Noodles

• Only 5 ingredients
• Ready in 15 minutes
• Budget-friendly
• Minimal cleanup
• Perfect as a main or side
• Naturally dairy-free and egg-free

These noodles deliver bold garlic flavor without being overpowering. The olive oil gently toasts the garlic until fragrant, while soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness. The pasta absorbs everything, creating a glossy, savory coating that clings to every strand.

It’s proof that you don’t need a long ingredient list to make something incredible.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti (or any long pasta)
• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

That’s it. Five simple ingredients that work together beautifully.

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Ingredient Breakdown & Tips

Spaghetti

Classic spaghetti works perfectly, but you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even rice noodles if needed. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free pasta.

Garlic

Fresh garlic is essential here. Since this is a garlic-forward dish, don’t substitute garlic powder. Mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the noodles.

Olive Oil

This forms the base of the sauce. Use good-quality olive oil since it plays a big role in flavor.

Soy Sauce

Adds depth, saltiness, and umami. Tamari works for gluten-free diets. You can also use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Green Onions

These add freshness and balance. They provide color and a gentle bite that cuts through the richness.

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Do not let it brown deeply—light golden is perfect.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the soy sauce and allow it to warm for about 30 seconds.
5. Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat thoroughly in the garlic sauce.
6. If the noodles seem dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until glossy and lightly sauced.
7. Toss in the sliced green onions and mix well.
8. Serve immediately while hot.

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The Secret to Perfect Garlic Flavor

Garlic can go from fragrant to bitter in seconds. The key is medium-low heat and constant attention. You want the garlic to soften and release its aroma without turning dark brown.

If garlic browns too much, it becomes sharp and unpleasant. Light golden edges are perfect.

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How This Dish Delivers Big Flavor with Few Ingredients

This easy garlic noodle recipe works because of balance:

• Olive oil provides richness
• Garlic adds aroma and boldness
• Soy sauce brings salt and umami
• Pasta absorbs and carries the flavor
• Green onions add freshness

Together, they create a dish that tastes like it took far more effort than it did.

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Make It a Complete Meal

While these noodles are satisfying on their own, you can easily build on them.

Add Protein

• Crispy tofu
• Pan-seared mushrooms
• Edamame
• Vegan chicken strips

Add Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli
• Sautéed bok choy
• Spinach
• Shredded carrots
• Bell peppers

Simply cook your additions separately and toss them in at the end.

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Variations to Try

Spicy Garlic Noodles

Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.

Sesame Version

Add 1 teaspoon sesame oil at the end for nutty depth.

Peanut Twist

Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter and a splash of lime juice.

Lemon Garlic

Finish with fresh lemon zest and juice for brightness.

This base recipe is incredibly adaptable.

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Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Add a splash of water or olive oil
• Warm gently in a skillet
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking

Microwave reheating works too—just cover to retain moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.

Can I use rice noodles?

Absolutely. Just cook them according to package directions and follow the same method.

Is this freezer-friendly?

This dish is best fresh, but you can freeze it. Texture may soften slightly after thawing.

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Serving Suggestions

These vegan garlic noodles pair beautifully with:

• Fresh cucumber salad
• Simple miso soup
• Steamed dumplings
• Roasted vegetables

They also work as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals.

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Why Simple Recipes Matter

There’s something powerful about a 15 minute vegan meal that feels comforting and complete. In a world of complicated recipes and endless ingredient lists, simple food reminds us that cooking doesn’t have to be stressful.

This recipe is ideal for:

• College students
• Busy professionals
• Beginner cooks
• Anyone cooking on a budget

It’s proof that plant-based meals can be easy, accessible, and full of flavor.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a quick plant-based dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste, these Vegan Garlic Noodles are exactly what you need.

Five ingredients. Fifteen minutes. One pan. Endless comfort.

Make it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.