20 delicious noodle dishes from around the world

If this isn’t your first instinct anytime someone mentions Thai food, are you okay? No, but seriously, the thin rice noodles mixed with bean sprouts, carrots, chopped peanuts, that delicious Pad Thai sauce, and your choice of protein are some of the most popular noodle dishes for a reason. And make sure they give you lime to tie it all together. Just make sure to clarify the spice level, or you might be disappointed.

Its origins are debated between Roman and Neapolitan, but this dish is definitely a tasty option. Whether it’s fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti carbonara, it isn’t hard to see why this dish is a favorite among pasta enthusiasts. The cheese, cream, and pork sauce isn’t vegan-friendly, but it’s the perfect dish for those more meat-inclined.

When people think of Japanese cuisine, most people imagine sushi or ramen. However, Udon noodles should not be forgotten. The thick wheat flour noodle is popular in soups but can also be served with veggies, various proteins, and a variety of sauces.

Of course, ramen had to be included in this round-up. This traditional noodle soup from Japan can come in many forms but usually consists of wheat noodles. Broth can be any flavor, with miso and soy among the top favorites. Various veggies and proteins are also usually included.

Most people imagine green sauce when thinking of pesto pasta, but that’s not the only form in which it comes. “Pesto” is the verb for the pressing motion to make the sauce, but various ingredients can be used. In “Rosso (red)” sauce, typically sundried tomatoes and almonds served with a choice of pasta!

Pad See Ew is another Thai favorite and a staple on menus. It’s stir-fried rice noodles with veggies, eggs, and additional protein if desired. The fish sauce, though, is the key here, mixed with soy sauce and sweeteners such as brown sugar and chilies for spice.

Bow tie or Farfalle pasta is less common than other forms but is popular for cold pasta salads. Mix in a vinaigrette with olives, onion, tomatoes, and feta. Or, add your summer favorites!

These twisty egg-based noodles are perfectly paired with Swedish meatballs. Get some at Ikea, or make your own at home!

This pasta translates to “cheese and pepper” and can be found on many menus throughout Italy and the US. Like so many Italian pasta dishes, it is the simplicity that makes the plate so great. The pasta is typically served with shaved or grated pecorino romano and black pepper.

If you’re looking for a lighter, fresher alternative, try opting out of traditional noodles altogether. Zucchini fettuccine is easily made by cooking the veggie in boiling water for a minute or until soft. Then, use a spiralizer or Julienne vegetable cutter to form the noodles. It is also perfect for those in need of a gluten-free option.

Spaghetti bolognese is another classic favorite that couldn’t have been left off this list. If you’ve ever been overwhelmed at an Italian restaurant, chances are you’ve defaulted to this delicious dish. That’s because it’s simple yet satisfying. Bolognese is also an easy sauce recipe to make and have for the entire week.

This is a fun combination! This recipe can be used with any long pasta or rice noodles. Just add Sichuan peppercorns for a little extra bite. 

Sometimes, simple is better. That’s absolutely the case when it comes to lemon pasta. Mix a bit of lemon juice, grated or shaved parmesan, your favorite veggies, and garlic into pasta noodles of your choice. Enjoy a lighter meal when you aren’t looking for a heavy bolognese.

Seafood and noodles are always a good idea! Mix fresh crab, garlic, and brown butter into a mouthwatering sauce that is super refreshing on warm evenings.

This baked dish is Mediterranean-inspired and perfect for summer. Place cooked pasta in a casserole pan with halloumi, harissa, and a sprinkle of broccoli for some veggie nutrients. Bake until the cheese is melted and the top layer of pasta is slightly browned.

These Sichuan noodles are ideal if you’re a fan of spice. They’re usually thinner noodles mixed with sesame paste, tahini, soy sauce, and a lot of spice. Varieties in Asia can often be soupy, but in the US, they’re typically served as a noodle dish.

A simple yet amazing Chinese stir-fry that always contains vegetables and a choice of protein and is frequently served with wontons.

An amazing option no matter the season. Who doesn’t like some tasty shrimp mixed into their pasta? There are many different sauce varieties you could pair with shrimp. Some are creamier with a lot of garlic, and others are a bit more plain, with citrus, salt, and oil to tie together all the flavors.

This popular takeout dish will surely please your taste buds any day of the week. Flank steak mixed with veggies, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic tossed together for an amazing meal.

A fun twist on alfredo: this dish can be made with most types of pasta noodles. Make a sauce out of cream, and parmesan, and sautee mushrooms in it with your spices of choice. It serves great with garlic bread!