When it comes to making a delightful meal out of rainbow vegetarian pad Thai, the right pairings elevate the entire dining experience. Here are three excellent options that work wonderfully:
Fresh Spring Rolls: These delightful morsels, filled with shrimp or veggies, enhance your dish with crunch and freshness. Pair them with a peanut dipping sauce for extra satisfaction.
Mango Salad: The sweet and tart flavors of mangoes complement the savory notes of pad Thai. Toss some diced mango with fresh greens, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a refreshing contrast.
Coconut Rice: This is a slightly sweet side that balances the savory flavors of the pad Thai. The creaminess of coconut paired with rice creates a lovely grassy note.
Hello, fellow foodies! I have a treat lined up for you today. If you’re in the mood for a vegetarian dish bursting with flavor and color, you’ve clicked on the right link. Today, I’m sharing my take on Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil. This dish is not just another recipe; it’s a celebration on a plate.
As a registered dietitian and a food blogger, I cherish anything that combines nutrition with flavor. This pad Thai showcases a medley of vibrant vegetables, peanuts, and the aromatic essence of fresh basil. It’s the perfect meal for busy weekdays or leisurely weekend dinners.
And let’s be honest; who doesn’t want to impress their guests with a luscious dish that’s easy to whip up? Together, we’ll roam through the how-tos, tips, and tricks of making this glorious pad Thai that would make any Thai street vendor proud. So, grab your ingredients and let’s cook this up!
What Is Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil?
Rainbow vegetarian pad Thai is a vibrant twist on the classic Thai noodle dish. Instead of the usual protein options, this recipe incorporates a colorful array of fresh veggies, offering both nutrition and visual appeal.
Each ingredient is handpicked not just for taste but also for how it complements the overall dish. Imagine the crunch of carrots, the crispness of bell peppers, and the earthiness of zucchini, all tossed with rice noodles in a flavorful sauce.
Adding peanuts introduces a satisfying crunch, while fresh basil lifts the flavor to new heights. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to integrate more plant-based meals into your diet, this pad Thai fits the bill perfectly.
You will also like the following Lunch recipes!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works for several reasons. The combination of textures—from the crunch of the vegetables to the chewiness of the noodles—creates a complex mouthfeel that keeps each bite interesting. The sweetness from brown sugar, the umami from the fish sauce (or its plant-based counterpart), and the spiciness of sambal oelek result in a harmonious flavor landscape.
Moreover, the dish is visually appealing. The array of colors—green zucchini, bright orange carrots, and red bell peppers—entices the eyes as much as the palate. Not to mention, it’s fast to prepare. Just a few steps will lead you to a substantial meal that can serve as a main course or a side dish.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Before you dive into cooking, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this vibrant recipe:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tbsp brown sugar (or any natural sweetener of choice)
- 1 tsp sambal oelek chili paste (or your preferred chili garlic paste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tbsp fish sauce (or a plant-based fish sauce alternative)
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp white vinegar (or rice vinegar for a milder tang)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp organic chicken or vegetable bone broth
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 114 gm rice noodles, uncooked
- 1 medium egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots, cut into thin matchsticks
- 1 tbsp soy sauce, low-sodium preferred
Every one of these ingredients plays a vital role in crafting this delightful dish.
How to Make Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil
Creating this delicious dish is not just easy, it’s also enjoyable. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on the step-by-step instructions!
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
Start by cooking your rice noodles according to package instructions. Generally, they’ll need to soak in hot water for about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce or a plant-based alternative, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and vinegar. This combination brings all the flavors together and gives the noodles a delightful glaze.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Stir them for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir-fry until they’re tender but not mushy. This should take around 4–5 minutes. You want them to retain that satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce you prepared earlier over the noodles. Toss everything together. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Beat in the Egg
Push all the noodles to one side of the pan. Add the beaten egg to the empty space and scramble it until cooked through. Then mix it with the noodles. The egg adds protein and richness to the dish.
Step 7: Finish with Herbs and Peanuts
Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh basil and cilantro, along with the roasted peanuts. Give it a final toss.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pad Thai
To take your pad Thai to the next level, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Right Noodle Choice: Use quality rice noodles. Check the packaging for the best results.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer it milder, reduce the sambal oelek.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables. The quality affects the dish’s flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Maintain the crunch by not overcooking the veggies.
- Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Store Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll remain good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, zap them in the microwave or toss them in a pan with a splash of vegetable broth to keep them moist. This dish is incredibly forgiving when reheated.
Nutrition Information
For a serving, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 5g
This pad Thai is a balanced meal, packed with nutrients while still being delicious and satisfying.
How Would I Recommend Serving Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil?
To enhance your dining experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
Top with Extra Peanuts: A sprinkle of additional crushed peanuts before serving adds extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
Garnish with Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before enjoying. This adds brightness and enhances flavors.
Serve with Sriracha: On the side, offer a drizzle of Sriracha for those who like extra heat. It adds an exciting kick!
Pair with a Cold Beverage: A chilled coconut water or Thai iced tea complements the spices beautifully.
Each of these suggestions brings a new element to the table, ensuring your pad Thai remains tantalizing.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
Sometimes you just can’t find what you need at the grocery store. Not a worry; here are some alternatives:
Rice Noodles: If you can’t find rice noodles, use soba noodles or whole wheat spaghetti. The texture will be different, but they work in a pinch.
Fish Sauce: For a vegan option, substitute with soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a splash of lemon juice for a similar taste.
Peanuts: If you have nut allergies, toasted sunflower seeds can offer a crunchy substitute.
Vegetables: If you’re missing an ingredient like zucchini, feel free to use broccoli, snap peas, or any veggies you have on hand.
Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai
Equipment
- bowl
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
- 3 tbsp brown sugar or any natural sweetener of choice
- 1 tsp sambal oelek chili paste or your preferred chili garlic paste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 3 tbsp fish sauce or a plant-based fish sauce alternative
- 1 cup yellow onion finely sliced
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp white vinegar or rice vinegar for a milder tang
- 1 medium red bell pepper julienned
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp organic chicken or vegetable bone broth
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 medium zucchini thinly sliced
- 114 gm rice noodles uncooked
- 1 medium egg lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup green onion thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots cut into thin matchsticks
- 1 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium preferred
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice Noodles
- Start by cooking your rice noodles according to package instructions. Generally, they’ll need to soak in hot water for about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce or a plant-based alternative, soy sauce, brown sugar, sambal oelek, and vinegar. This combination brings all the flavors together and gives the noodles a delightful glaze.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- In a large pan or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Stir them for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant. The aroma will be heavenly.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
- Toss in the carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir-fry until they’re tender but not mushy. This should take around 4–5 minutes. You want them to retain that satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce
- Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Pour the sauce you prepared earlier over the noodles. Toss everything together. Ensure the noodles are evenly coated. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Beat in the Egg
- Push all the noodles to one side of the pan. Add the beaten egg to the empty space and scramble it until cooked through. Then mix it with the noodles. The egg adds protein and richness to the dish.
Step 7: Finish with Herbs and Peanuts
- Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the fresh basil and cilantro, along with the roasted peanuts. Give it a final toss.
Notes
- Right Noodle Choice: Use quality rice noodles. Check the packaging for the best results.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer it milder, reduce the sambal oelek.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables. The quality affects the dish’s flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Maintain the crunch by not overcooking the veggies.
- Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Ensure the rice noodles are verified gluten-free.
2. Can I skip the egg to make it vegan?
Yes! Simply leave out the egg. the dish will still be delicious and flavorful.
3. What can I serve this pad Thai with?
You can serve it with spring rolls, a light cucumber salad, or just enjoy it alone for a filling meal.
4. Is this dish spicy?
It can be! The sambal oelek adds heat. If you prefer it milder, use less or omit it entirely.
5. Can I prepare it in advance?
Sure! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just cook when you’re ready to eat.
6. How can I make it more filling?
Consider adding tofu or tempeh for additional protein. Both can easily be stir-fried and incorporated.
Conclusion
Making Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil is an enjoyable experience that fills not only the stomach but also the soul. It’s fresh, flavorful, and adaptable—all key traits for any home cook. With just a few quality ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that impresses your family or guests.
Whether you enjoy cooking or need a quick and nutritious meal, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to try it and modify it to make it your own. So get your apron on, gather those ingredients, and let’s make some pad Thai magic! Buon appetito!
You’ll also like these latest recipes!
My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more