Vegan Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe

Vegan Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe

"Savor the bold and spicy flavors of vegan Thai peanut noodle salad, perfect for a refreshing and satisfying meal!"

Did you know?

Vegan Thai Peanut Noodle Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the freshness of vegetables with the richness of peanut sauce. This salad features a base of rice noodles, tossed with crunchy bell peppers, shredded carrots, and edamame. The creamy peanut sauce, made with peanut butter, lime juice, and a hint of spice, ties all the flavors together. Fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts add a burst of freshness and texture. Visually, this salad is a treat with its mix of vibrant colors and textures. Each bite offers a refreshing and satisfying blend of flavors, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.

Recipe:

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin)

Instructions:

Prepare the Noodles:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.

Prepare the Peanut Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, sriracha (if using), and enough water to reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice noodles, bell peppers, shredded carrots, and edamame.
2. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts.

Serve:

1. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 380; Fat: 16g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Carbohydrates: 48g; Fiber: 6g; Sugars: 10g; Protein: 12g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Bulk Buying: Purchase rice noodles and peanut butter in bulk. These ingredients are versatile and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit and saving you money in the long run.
2. Homemade Peanut Sauce: If store-bought peanut sauce is expensive or contains unwanted additives, consider making your own. Whipping up a batch of peanut sauce with simple ingredients is cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and quality.
3. Reusable Storage Containers: Invest in reusable storage containers for your salads. These containers are not only environmentally friendly but also save money over time compared to disposable options.
4. Energy Efficiency: Cook rice noodles in large batches and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This saves on energy costs and makes meal prep more efficient.
5. Smart Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, providing a convenient and healthy meal throughout the week.
6. Ingredient Substitutions: If edamame is unavailable or too expensive, you can use green peas or snap peas for a similar texture and flavor.
7. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your salad, such as a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a handful of bean sprouts for added crunch and visual appeal.
8. DIY Peanut Sauce: Make your own peanut sauce in larger batches and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This sauce is versatile and can be used on other salads, stir-fries, or as a dipping sauce.
9. Learning and Sharing: Join online vegan cooking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community.
10. Creative Presentations: Enhance the visual appeal of your salad by arranging the ingredients in a colorful and artistic manner. These additions not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation for your meal.

By incorporating these tips, you can enjoy making Vegan Thai Peanut Noodle Salad while being mindful of your budget and the environment. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!