Quick and Easy Vegan Peanut Noodles with Fresh Veggies
Creating this Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles recipe was like a light bulb moment for me. It all started on one of those evenings when I came home utterly exhausted, with barely enough energy to think about dinner. My pantry was looking sparse, and takeout felt like a cop-out, but I was craving something hearty and flavorful.
I remembered a conversation I had with a friend about how versatile peanut butter could be in savory dishes, and I decided to experiment. I rummaged through my kitchen and found a half-used package of rice noodles, some frozen vegetables, and a jar of peanut butter. With these ingredients in hand, I set out to create something quick and satisfying.
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How to Make Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles
I started with a simple sauce, combining peanut butter with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness. The aroma that filled my kitchen as the sauce gently simmered was incredibly inviting. Meanwhile, I cooked the rice noodles and microwaved the frozen veggies, eager to bring everything together.
As I mixed the noodles and vegetables with the creamy, garlicky peanut sauce, I realized I had stumbled upon a winning combination. The dish was vibrant and colorful, the flavors perfectly balanced. It was exactly what I needed – comforting, nutritious, and ready in no time.
The best part was how customizable it was. I’ve since made this dish countless times, tweaking the ingredients based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add mushrooms or snap peas for extra texture, or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick. It’s become my go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and I love that it’s both delicious and wholesome.
Creating these Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles was a game-changer for me, turning a potentially stressful evening into a fun and rewarding culinary adventure. Now, it’s a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.
Chef’s Notes – Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles
- Cook the noodles until al dente to avoid them becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Finely chop or grate the garlic to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the sauce.
- For added protein, consider topping with cubed tofu or tempeh that has been lightly sautéed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Ensure the sauce ingredients are well-mixed and smooth before adding to the noodles to prevent clumping.
- You can pair this well with our Thai Coconut Tofu Veggie Soup
Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles
Dive into a bowl of these Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles, bursting with a rich, garlicky peanut sauce and vibrant veggies. Perfect for those busy nights when you crave something delicious and nutritious. This dish is a game-changer, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner!
4
servings10
minutes10
minutes350
kcal20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Sauce
1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup water
1-2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
2-3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter or powdered PB2
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- For the Noodles and Veggies
7 ounces rice noodles (about half a package of Thai kitchen brand)
11 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (broccoli and cauliflower)
- Optional Additions
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like sriracha)
- Optional Garnishes
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Extra sriracha
- Alternative Ingredients:
Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free.
Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free.
Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar.
Maple Syrup: Agave nectar or honey if not strictly vegan.
Rice Noodles: Whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for low-carb.
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the soy sauce, water, garlic, rice vinegar, maple syrup, peanut butter, and ground ginger. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble gently (about 5 minutes).
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 5-7 minutes). Drain well.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the noodles cook, microwave the frozen vegetables according to package instructions or add them to the boiling water with the noodles for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Combine and Serve: Once the noodles and vegetables are cooked and drained, return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the top and toss to coat evenly. If using optional additions like mushrooms or hoisin sauce, stir them in now.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the noodles hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Add extra sriracha if desired for a spicy kick.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Vitamin A: 20IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQs – Quick Vegan Peanut Noodles
What can I serve with these peanut noodles?
A side of steamed edamame, a simple cucumber salad, or even a bowl of miso soup would complement the dish nicely.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute rice noodles with whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have a nut allergy.
How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water slightly. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more water or vegetable broth.
Can I add more protein to the dish?
Yes, adding tofu, tempeh, or even edamame will increase the protein content.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness.
