Name: Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: Vegetable Noodles:; ¾ lb daikon radish; 4 medium carrots; ½ lb zucchini; ½ lb Bean Sprouts; 4 Green Onions; 1 small handful cilantro leaves; 2 tbsp Sesame seeds; 4 small wedges lime; Tofu:; 14 oz organic extra-firm tofu,; peanut sauce; ½ cup peanut butter; ¼ cup lime juice; 2 tbsp tamari; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tsp fresh ginger; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; 3 tbsp water

This healthy no noodle pad thai offers a delightful twist on the classic dish by using fresh vegetable noodles. It's packed with vibrant veggies and topped with a creamy peanut sauce, making it a nutritious and flavorful meal.

Photos of Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe, such as daikon radish, tamari, and bean sprouts, might not be commonly found in every household. When heading to the supermarket, be sure to check the produce section for the radish and sprouts, and the international or Asian foods aisle for the tamari.

Ingredients for Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai

Daikon radish: A mild-flavored winter radish that adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and a vibrant color to the vegetable noodles.

Zucchini: A versatile vegetable that blends well with other flavors.

Bean sprouts: Adds a fresh, crisp texture to the dish.

Green onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Cilantro leaves: A fragrant herb that enhances the dish’s flavor.

Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.

Lime: Used for its juice to add tanginess and as a garnish.

Tofu: A plant-based protein source that absorbs flavors well.

Peanut butter: The base for the creamy peanut sauce.

Lime juice: Adds acidity to balance the flavors in the sauce.

Tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that adds umami.

Honey: Provides a natural sweetness to the sauce.

Fresh ginger: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the sauce.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat to the dish.

Water: Used to thin out the peanut sauce to desired consistency.

One reader, Cassi Guillen says:

This healthy no noodle pad Thai recipe is a game-changer! The fresh vegetable noodles and creamy peanut sauce create a delicious, guilt-free meal. The tofu adds the perfect protein boost. Highly recommend!

Cassi Guillen

Techniques Required for Making Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai

How to use a julienne peeler, mandoline, spiralizer, or regular peeler: These tools are used to create thin, noodle-like strips from vegetables. A julienne peeler creates thin matchstick-sized pieces, a mandoline slices vegetables into uniform thin strips, a spiralizer turns vegetables into spiral-shaped noodles, and a regular peeler can be used to create wide, flat strips.

How to halve tofu lengthwise: Place the tofu block on a cutting board and carefully slice it horizontally through the middle to create two thinner slabs.

How to stack and slice tofu: After halving the tofu, stack the two slabs on top of each other. Slice them lengthwise into 4 columns, then turn the tofu and slice across the columns to create ¼-inch wide squares.

How to whisk ingredients: Combine the peanut sauce ingredients in a small bowl and use a whisk to mix them until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

How to gently toss ingredients: Use your hands to mix the vegetable and tofu mixture with the dressing, ensuring that every strand is coated without breaking the vegetables or tofu pieces.

How To Make Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai

This pad thai recipe replaces the noodles with fine strips of vegetables for a healthier alternative with the same peanut-infused flavor from the original.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Vegetable Noodles:

¾lbdaikon radishpeeled
4mediumcarrotspeeled
½lbzucchinior replace with an additional ½ pound bean sprouts
½lbbean sprouts
4green onionsfinely sliced, white and parts
1small handfulcilantro leaveschopped, plus extra for serving
2tbspsesame seedspreferably black, plus extra for serving
4small wedgeslimefor serving

Tofu:

14ozorganic extra-firm tofu,drained and very gently squeezed of excess moisture

Peanut sauce

½cuppeanut butteror almond butter
¼cuplime juice
2tbsptamarior other soy sauce
2tbsphoney
2tspfresh gingergrated
1pinchred pepper flakes
3tbspwaterto thin

Instructions

Vegetable Noodles:

Use a julienne peeler, mandoline, spiralizer or regular peeler to create noodles out of the radish, carrots and zucchini, if using. Transfer the noodles to a large serving bowl. Add the bean sprouts, onions, chopped cilantro and sesame seeds to the bowl.

Tofu:

Halve your slab of tofu lengthwise through the middle so you have two large, 1-inch thick slabs.
Stack the slabs on top of each other and slice them into 4 columns lengthwise, then turn the tofu and slice across the columns to make ¼-inch wide squares of tofu. Gently transfer the tofu to the serving bowl.

Peanut Sauce:

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—the sauce should taste very bold at this point.
If you will not be serving all 4 portions immediately, portion off the amounts of vegetable/tofu mixture you need for now. Drizzle in enough dressing to coat the portioned amount. Use your hands to gently toss the mixture until every single strand is coating in dressing.
Serve pad Thai with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro and sesame seeds. Store leftover vegetable/tofu mixture separately from the dressing and dress just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 403.77kcal
Fat: 23.52g
Saturated Fat: 4.63g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.02g
Carbohydrates: 36.78g
Fiber: 8.45g
Sugar: 22.28g
Protein: 20.96g
Sodium: 592.52mg
Calcium: 336.82mg
Potassium: 1064.96mg
Iron: 4.61mg
Vitamin A: 524.94µg
Vitamin C: 49.53mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai

When preparing the tofu, ensure you press it well to remove excess moisture before slicing. This will help achieve a firmer texture and allow the tofu to better absorb the flavors of the peanut sauce. Use a tofu press or place the tofu between paper towels and weigh it down with a heavy object for at least 15-20 minutes.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing No Noodle Pad Thai

Prepare the vegetables in advance: Use a julienne peeler or spiralizer to create vegetable noodles the night before and store them in the fridge.

Pre-make the sauce: Whisk together the peanut sauce ingredients and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can just toss it with the vegetables and tofu when ready.

Use pre-cubed tofu: Save time by buying pre-cubed tofu from the store, so you can skip the slicing step.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store portions separately. This way, you have ready-to-go meals for the next few days.

Substitute Ingredients For Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe

daikon radish - Substitute with jicama: Jicama has a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor, making it a great low-carb alternative.
carrots - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy element, and they are rich in vitamins.
zucchini - Substitute with cucumber: Cucumber provides a refreshing crunch and is low in calories, perfect for a light dish.
bean sprouts - Substitute with snow peas: Snow peas offer a similar crunch and are packed with fiber and vitamins.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish to add a fresh taste.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor and is a good alternative for those who dislike cilantro.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds add a similar nutty flavor and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon provides a similar tangy flavor and can be used to add acidity to the dish.
tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh is a fermented soy product that is high in protein and has a firm texture, making it a great alternative to tofu.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter has a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, and it is a good option for those with peanut allergies.
lime juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar tangy flavor and can be used to add acidity to the sauce.
tamari - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos offer a similar umami flavor and are a soy-free alternative.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and is a good vegan alternative to honey.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar spicy and aromatic flavor.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a similar heat and can be used to spice up the dish.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds extra flavor and nutrients to the sauce.

Best Way to Present This No Noodle Pad Thai

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will make the vibrant colors of the vegetable noodles and tofu pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Create a nest of vegetable noodles: Arrange the daikon radish, carrots, and zucchini noodles in a neat, circular nest in the center of the plate. This will serve as the base of your dish.
Layer the tofu cubes artistically: Gently place the tofu cubes on top of the vegetable noodle nest, slightly off-center to add a dynamic element to the presentation.
Add a touch of green: Sprinkle bean sprouts and finely chopped green onions over the tofu and noodles. This adds freshness and a burst of color.
Drizzle the peanut sauce elegantly: Use a squeeze bottle or a spoon to drizzle the peanut sauce in a zigzag pattern over the entire dish. Ensure the sauce is evenly distributed but not overwhelming.
Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds: Finish the dish with a small handful of cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This adds texture and a final touch of color.
Serve with lime wedges: Place a lime wedge on the side of the plate. This not only adds a pop of color but also allows diners to add a fresh citrus burst to their dish.
Use microgreens for a refined touch: Add a few microgreens on top of the tofu cubes for an extra layer of sophistication and a hint of bitterness.
Ensure balance and symmetry: Make sure all elements are balanced and symmetrical on the plate. This creates a harmonious and professional presentation.
Clean the plate edges: Before serving, wipe the edges of the plate to remove any stray sauce or ingredients, ensuring a clean and polished look.

Essential Tools for Making No Noodle Pad Thai

Julienne peeler: A tool used to create thin, uniform strips of vegetables, perfect for making vegetable noodles.
Mandoline: A kitchen device that slices vegetables into consistent, thin pieces quickly and efficiently.
Spiralizer: A gadget that turns vegetables into spiral-shaped noodles, ideal for replacing traditional noodles in this recipe.
Regular peeler: A simple tool for peeling the skin off vegetables and can also be used to create thin strips.
Large serving bowl: A bowl used to combine and mix all the vegetable noodles, bean sprouts, onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
Knife: Essential for cutting the tofu into slabs and then into small squares.
Cutting board: A surface to safely chop and prepare the tofu and other ingredients.
Small bowl: Used for whisking together the ingredients for the peanut sauce.
Whisk: A tool to mix the peanut sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the peanut butter, lime juice, and water accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the tamari, honey, fresh ginger, and red pepper flakes precisely.
Serving utensils: Tools like tongs or salad servers to toss the vegetable noodles with the peanut sauce and serve the dish.
Lime squeezer: A tool to extract juice from the lime wedges for the peanut sauce and serving.

How To Store and Freeze No Noodle Pad Thai

If you have leftover vegetable noodles, tofu, and peanut sauce, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
The vegetable noodles and tofu will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
The peanut sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
When ready to serve, portion out the desired amount of vegetable noodles and tofu, then drizzle with the peanut sauce and toss gently to coat.
It's not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the vegetable noodles and tofu may change significantly upon thawing, resulting in a less appealing dish.
If you need to prepare the components ahead of time, you can spiralize the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the dish.
The peanut sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify over time.

Random Fact About Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai

A unique aspect of this healthy no noodle pad thai recipe is its use of vegetable noodles made from daikon radish, carrots, and zucchini, which provide a low-carb alternative to traditional rice noodles. This makes the dish not only nutritious but also suitable for those following gluten-free or low-carb diets.

Is Making No Noodle Pad Thai at Home Economical?

This healthy no noodle pad thai recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like daikon radish, carrots, zucchini, and tofu are affordable and widely available. The homemade peanut sauce adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.

Is This Pad Thai Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This healthy no noodle pad thai recipe is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional pad thai. The use of vegetable noodles made from daikon radish, carrots, and zucchini provides a low-carb, fiber-rich base for the dish. The inclusion of bean sprouts, green onions, and cilantro adds fresh flavors and additional nutrients. The tofu provides a good source of plant-based protein, while the peanut sauce, made with natural ingredients like peanut butter, lime juice, and tamari, offers a flavorful and satisfying dressing.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables, such as red bell peppers, purple cabbage, or snap peas, to increase the antioxidant content and visual appeal of the dish
Opt for organic, non-GMO tofu to ensure the highest quality and avoid potential exposure to harmful chemicals
Experiment with different types of nuts or seeds in the sauce, such as almond butter or sunflower seed butter, to provide a range of healthy fats and flavor profiles
Add a handful of chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch and a boost of healthy fats and protein
Serve the pad thai with a side of steamed or stir-fried leafy greens, such as spinach or bok choy, to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe

This healthy no noodle pad Thai recipe is a refreshing twist on the traditional dish, offering a vibrant mix of vegetables and protein-rich tofu. The use of daikon radish, carrots, and zucchini as noodles adds a delightful crunch and a burst of color. The peanut sauce, with its bold flavors of lime, tamari, and ginger, ties everything together beautifully. It's a nutritious, gluten-free alternative that doesn't compromise on taste. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this dish is both visually appealing and deliciously wholesome.

Enhance Your Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Imagine a refreshing salad that combines the creamy richness of avocado with the sweet, tropical burst of mango. Tossed with a light citrus vinaigrette, this side dish will perfectly complement the bold flavors of your noodle-free pad thai.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: Elevate your meal with a fragrant bowl of jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture will provide a delightful contrast to the zesty and nutty notes of your main course. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of tropical flair.

Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad: Add a refreshing crunch to your meal with a cucumber salad that packs a punch. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with chili flakes, rice vinegar, and a hint of sugar. This side dish will bring a cooling yet spicy balance to your pad thai experience.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: For a touch of sweetness and a hint of smokiness, serve grilled pineapple skewers. The caramelized edges and juicy interior of the pineapple will add a delightful contrast to the savory and tangy elements of your main dish. A sprinkle of chili powder can add an unexpected kick.

Thai Iced Tea: Complete your meal with a traditional Thai iced tea. This creamy, sweet beverage made with black tea, condensed milk, and a touch of spice will provide a refreshing and indulgent finish to your healthy pad thai. Serve over ice for the ultimate cooling effect.

Alternative Recipes Similar to No Noodle Pad Thai

Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry: A vibrant and colorful dish featuring zucchini noodles, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots tossed in a savory soy-ginger sauce. Top with toasted sesame seeds and a sprinkle of green onions for a delightful crunch.

Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai: Swap out traditional noodles for spaghetti squash in this twist on pad thai. Combine with shredded carrots, bean sprouts, and tofu or chicken. Drizzle with a tangy peanut sauce and garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro.

Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry: Transform cauliflower into a low-carb rice alternative. Stir-fry with broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Add a splash of soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil for a flavorful finish.

Sweet Potato Noodle Buddha Bowl: Create a nourishing bowl with spiralized sweet potatoes, roasted chickpeas, avocado, and spinach. Drizzle with a creamy tahini dressing and sprinkle with hemp seeds for added protein and crunch.

Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls: Wrap colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and avocado in rice paper. Serve with a side of peanut dipping sauce for a fresh and light appetizer or snack.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement No Noodle Pad Thai

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms filled with a delightful mixture of creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and crunchy walnuts. The mushrooms are roasted to perfection, giving them a tender yet slightly crispy texture. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and rich creaminess, making it an irresistible start to any meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.

Avocado Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with avocado bruschetta. Start with toasted baguette slices as the base, then layer on a generous spread of mashed avocado mixed with lime juice and sea salt. Top with a vibrant tomato salsa made from diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil. The combination of creamy avocado and zesty salsa creates a refreshing and satisfying bite. Finish with a sprinkle of feta cheese and a dash of cracked black pepper.

Desserts:

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy mousse made with ripe avocado and dark chocolate. This decadent treat is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. The smooth texture of the avocado blends perfectly with the deep flavors of cocoa, creating a dessert that feels luxurious yet guilt-free. Top it with a sprinkle of sea salt and a few fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Coconut Chia Pudding: Experience the tropical delight of chia pudding infused with creamy coconut milk. This refreshing dessert is both light and satisfying, with the chia seeds providing a delightful texture and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. Sweetened naturally with a touch of maple syrup or honey, and layered with juicy mango slices or pineapple chunks, this pudding is a perfect way to end your meal on a healthy note. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added crunch.

Why trust this Healthy No Noodle Pad Thai Recipe:

This healthy no noodle pad thai recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering a nutritious and low-carb alternative. The use of vegetable noodles like daikon radish, carrots, and zucchini ensures a fresh and vibrant base. The peanut sauce is rich and flavorful, made with wholesome ingredients like peanut butter, lime juice, and fresh ginger. The addition of organic extra-firm tofu provides a satisfying protein boost. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for those seeking a healthy, delicious meal.

Share your thoughts on this healthy no noodle Pad Thai recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

How do I make vegetable noodles without a spiralizer?

You can use a julienne peeler, mandoline, or even a regular peeler to create noodles out of the radish, carrots, and zucchini. Just be careful and take your time to get nice, even strips.

Can I use a different protein instead of tofu?

Absolutely! You can substitute tofu with chicken, shrimp, or even tempeh if you prefer. Just make sure to cook your chosen protein thoroughly before adding it to the vegetable noodles.

How long does the peanut sauce last in the fridge?

The peanut sauce can last up to a week in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as it might thicken up a bit.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetable noodles and tofu ahead of time. Just store the vegetable/tofu mixture separately from the peanut sauce and dress it just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

What can I use instead of peanut butter for the sauce?

If you have a peanut allergy or just want to switch things up, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!