Vegan Pad Thai
When I think of comfort food, my mind immediately drifts to Vegan Pad Thai. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a big bowl of this dish, especially when packed with vibrant vegetables and drenched in a rich, flavorful sauce. A few years ago, I was on a quest to find the perfect plant-based meal that didn’t sacrifice taste or texture. After countless trials, I finally crafted a recipe that embodies everything I love about this classic Thai dish, but in a vegan-friendly way. I still remember the first time I served it to my friends; they were blown away by how delicious it was! From the chewy texture of the rice noodles to the crunch of fresh veggies, each bite is a celebration of flavors and satisfaction.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Easy
350 kcal
12 g
Whole30, Low FODMAP
10 g
Peeler, Grater, Blender, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot
Why Try This Vegan Pad Thai
It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
There’s no doubt why Vegan Pad Thai has become a staple at my gatherings. It appeals to everyone—vegan or not. Friends who usually turn their noses up at plant-based dishes have asked for seconds (and thirds!). It’s that good!
Quick and Easy
This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. You can whip it up in under thirty minutes, making it an ideal choice for dinner after a long day. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze!
Nutritious and Flavorful
With a colorful array of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage, Vegan Pad Thai doesn’t just taste great; it’s loaded with nutrients. The coconut aminos and sesame oil deliver a flavor punch without the guilt, making it a healthy option for any meal.
Customizable
One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add extra protein sources like tofu or tempeh. This way, you can make it your own every time!
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re like me and enjoy preparing meals in advance, you’ll love how well Vegan Pad Thai keeps in the refrigerator. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready to go.
Kid-Friendly
Kids love the fun texture of the noodles and the bright colors of the veggies. I’ve found that even my picky eaters will devour this dish without hesitation. It’s a great way to introduce them to more plant-based meals!
What Goes Into Vegan Pad Thai
The beauty of Vegan Pad Thai lies in its simple yet wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors. The rice noodles serve as a delightful base, while an array of vibrant vegetables enhances both the taste and texture. The sauce, made from coconut aminos and peanut butter, ties everything together beautifully. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients that make this dish sing!
- 14 ounces Pad Thai Rice Noodles – The star of the dish, these noodles are chewy and absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- 1 Yellow Bell Pepper – Thinly sliced, it adds a sweet crunch and a splash of color.
- 1 Carrot – Shredded for that extra crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- 3 cups Red Cabbage – Thinly sliced, it adds a lovely texture and vibrant color.
- 2 cups shelled edamame – Packed with protein, they give the dish a hearty feel.
- 6 medium asparagus spears – Chopped for that fresh, green crunch.
- 2/3 cup coconut aminos – A soy sauce alternative that brings depth of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 2 tablespoons Peanut Butter – Creamy and rich, it enhances the sauce and adds a satisfying texture.
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger – Peeled and grated, it introduces a warm, zesty flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic – Adds aroma and depth to the dish.
- Sesame Seeds – For garnish, they add a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Cilantro – Chopped, it imparts a fresh burst of flavor.
- Soy Sauce – To taste, for those who prefer an extra savory kick.
Directions for Vegan Pad Thai
Making Vegan Pad Thai is a fun and rewarding experience. You’ll be amazed at how quickly the flavors come together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
- Start by preparing the sauce. Add all ingredients for the sauce, including coconut aminos, peanut butter, fresh ginger, and garlic, to a small blender. Blend until smooth and set aside. This sauce is going to be the heart of your Vegan Pad Thai, so make sure it’s well combined.
- Next, bring a pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the rice noodles and cook them until softened, about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them perfectly al dente.
- Six minutes into cooking the noodles, add in the shelled edamame and chopped asparagus. This will allow the veggies to cook just enough to stay crisp. You want the asparagus to remain al dente, adding a lovely bite to your dish.
- Once everything is cooked, strain the noodles and vegetables into a colander. Give them a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Then, transfer the noodles and veggies immediately into a large serving bowl.
- Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the remaining vegetables, including the thinly sliced yellow bell pepper, shredded carrot, and red cabbage. Pour the sauce over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- With clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until the vegetables are coated in the sauce and well mixed. You want each bite to be bursting with flavor and vibrant color.
- Finally, taste your dish and add salt and soy sauce (or more coconut aminos) as needed. This final touch elevates the flavors and ties everything together beautifully.
- Serve your Vegan Pad Thai warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the noodles to ensure they cook evenly.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini can work beautifully!
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the noodles and veggies. The goal is to keep them crisp and vibrant.
- Let It Rest: After mixing, let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
Helpful Hints
As you prepare your Vegan Pad Thai, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure a successful and delicious outcome!
- Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover Vegan Pad Thai. Just be aware the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or spring rolls for a complete meal.
- Serving Size: Adjust portion sizes as needed. This recipe is great for meal prep, so consider making it for lunch or dinner ahead of time.
- Garnishes: Fresh lime wedges and crushed peanuts can enhance the flavors even more. Don’t skip on these!
What to Serve With Vegan Pad Thai
When it comes to enjoying your Vegan Pad Thai, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic suggestions on what to serve alongside:
- Fresh Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls filled with veggies make the perfect pairing with your Pad Thai. They can be served plain or with a dipping sauce.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing complements the rich flavors of the Vegan Pad Thai.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: For a filling meal, serve it alongside a quick vegetable stir-fry. Use any seasonal veggies you have at hand!
- Rice: If you’re craving something extra, serve it with jasmine rice or coconut rice to balance the flavors.
- Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even special occasions like birthdays and celebrations.
- Seasonal Pairing: In spring, fresh herbs like basil and mint can add a bright flavor, while in summer, serve it cold for a refreshing meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vegan Pad Thai is a dish that brings together amazing flavors and textures in the most satisfying way. It’s quick, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful fusion of tastes that will not only please your palate but also leave you feeling nourished.
Vegan Pad Thai
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add all ingredients for the sauce to a small blender and blend until smooth. Set aside until ready to use.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the rice noodles. Allow the noodles to cook until softened, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Six minutes into cooking, add the shelled edamame and the chopped asparagus to the hot water in order to cook the vegetables (you want to leave the asparagus al dente and not over-cook it).
- Strain the vegetables and noodles into a colander and immediately place in a large serving bowl.
- Add the remaining vegetables, pour the sauce over everything and toss together.
- Add salt and soy sauce (or liquid aminos) to taste.
Notes
- Tip 1: Liquid aminos have a similar flavor to soy sauce. You can replace the liquid aminos with low-sodium soy sauce.
