Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for anyone seeking a delicious and healthy meal. This recipe is great for vegetarians, families, and anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of vegetarian Thai cuisine. The colorful array of vegetables not only makes this dish visually appealing but also packs a punch of nutrients and flavors. Did you know that traditional Pad Thai is often made with rice noodles, but you can easily substitute them with gluten-free options or whole grain noodles for a healthier twist?
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 servings | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 350 |
Ingredients for Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai
- 8 oz rice noodles (or gluten-free noodles)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup firm tofu, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green for color)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons homemade Pad Thai sauce (see below)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instruction for Making Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai
Step 1: Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This will give your tofu a lovely crispy texture.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Toss in the sliced bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are vibrant and tender-crisp.
Step 5: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet along with the soy sauce, homemade Pad Thai sauce, and lime juice. Toss everything together gently to combine, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Finally, sprinkle the chopped basil and crushed peanuts over the top. Toss again to combine and serve the Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai hot, garnished with additional peanuts and basil if desired. Enjoy your colorful, nutritious meal!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 14g |
Tips and Variations for Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai
- Shortcuts: Use pre-cut vegetables or frozen stir-fry mixes to save time on prep.
- Recipe Swaps: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on the season. Zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant can work beautifully.
- Make it Spicy: Add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick.
- Protein Boost: You can substitute tofu with tempeh or add edamame for additional protein.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like cilantro or mint to give your dish a unique flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Cooking pot for noodles
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula or tongs for stirring
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent the noodles from becoming too dry.
Food and Drink Pairings
This colorful Pad Thai pairs wonderfully with a crisp cucumber salad or a light Asian slaw. For drinks, consider serving it with iced green tea or a refreshing Thai iced coffee to complement the flavors of the dish.
If you enjoyed making this Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai, be sure to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious and healthy meal ideas!
Q: What are the 5 flavors of Pad Thai?
A: The five flavors of Pad Thai include sweet (from sugar), sour (from tamarind or lime), salty (from fish sauce or soy sauce), spicy (from chili), and umami (from ingredients like peanuts and tofu).
Q: What makes Pad Thai so orange?
A: Pad Thai gets its signature orange hue primarily from tamarind paste and the addition of paprika or chili powder, giving it a vibrant color as well as a rich flavor.
Q: What goes well with Pad Thai?
A: Pad Thai pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as spring rolls, Thai cucumber salad, or a refreshing fruit salad to balance its flavors.
Q: Does Pad Thai have peanuts?
A: Yes, traditional Pad Thai is often topped with crushed peanuts, which adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
