Vegetarian Pad Thai

If you’re craving a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s quick to whip up on a weeknight, look no further than this Vegetarian Pad Thai. This classic Thai dish is usually laden with shrimp or chicken, but this version is packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich edamame, making it a delicious and satisfying meatless option. With the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, this Vegetarian Pad Thai will be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Vegetarian Pad Thai is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also showcases a medley of fresh ingredients that are good for you. The combination of zucchini, carrots, and bean sprouts adds crunch and nutrition, while the edamame provides a hearty protein boost. Additionally, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is nourishing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste!

Ingredient Rundown

To make this delightful Vegetarian Pad Thai, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1-3 teaspoons chili garlic sauce or Sriracha, or hot sauce of choice
• 2 medium zucchini, spiralized or julienned
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 2 large green onions, finely chopped
• ½ cup finely chopped peanuts
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving
• Additional hot sauce for serving

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Spiralizer or Julienne Peeler: For creating zucchini noodles.
• Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for stir-frying the ingredients.
• Spatula: For tossing and mixing the Pad Thai.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.

Vegetarian Pad Thai Cooking Guide

Now, let’s get cooking with this step-by-step guide to your delicious Vegetarian Pad Thai!

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce or tamari, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1-3 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce (or your preferred hot sauce). Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Spiralize or julienne the two medium zucchini and set aside. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions, peanuts, and cilantro.

Step 3: Cook the Eggs

In a large wok or skillet, heat ½ teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Crack the two eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining ½ teaspoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the spiralized zucchini, bean sprouts, grated carrots, and shelled edamame to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly. Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan along with the chopped green onions. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pan from heat and serve the Vegetarian Pad Thai immediately. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Don’t forget to add extra hot sauce if you like it spicy!

Better Choices & Swaps

If you want to customize your Vegetarian Pad Thai, consider these options:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari.
• Vegan: Omit eggs and use tofu for added protein.
• Nut-Free: Replace peanuts with sunflower seeds or omit entirely.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should maintain a slight crunch for the best texture.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of chili sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To enhance the flavors, let the sauce sit for a few minutes before adding it to your stir-fry.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

For storage, let your Vegetarian Pad Thai cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent it from drying out.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my Pad Thai is too salty?

If your Vegetarian Pad Thai turns out too salty, try adding a squeeze of lime juice to balance the flavors. You can also add additional vegetables or a bit of cooked rice to absorb some of the saltiness.

How can I make my Pad Thai spicier?

To amp up the heat, add more chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the sauce. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers while stir-frying.

Can I use pre-packaged stir-fry vegetables?

Absolutely! Pre-packaged stir-fry vegetables can save time and are a great alternative. Just ensure they are fresh and suitable for stir-frying.

What if I don’t have edamame?

If edamame is unavailable, you can substitute it with cooked chickpeas, tofu, or any other protein of your choice for a satisfying meal.

Serve with These

• Coconut Rice
• Thai Spring Rolls
• Spicy Peanut Sauce
• Thai Cucumber Salad

Bring It to the Table

This Vegetarian Pad Thai is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas are sure to draw everyone to the table. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends or family, each bite is a delightful journey through the bold flavors of Thailand.

With its ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to your liking, this Vegetarian Pad Thai is a must-try dish. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness that’s not only satisfying but also full of nutrition. Happy cooking!