Spicy Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight
Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal? These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Tofu and Vegetables are a quick and satisfying answer. Picture perfectly cooked noodles coated in a creamy, savory peanut sauce with a delightful kick, studded with tender tofu and crisp-tender vegetables. It's a customizable, weeknight-friendly dish that delivers a burst of Asian-inspired flavors in every bite. This #peanutnoodles recipe from FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com is perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: Creamy peanut sauce with a spicy kick.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your preferred spice level and vegetables.
- Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly: A delicious meat-free option.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 225g (8 oz) noodles (spaghetti, linguine, or udon work well)
For the Tofu & Vegetables:
- 225g (8 oz) firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 115g (4 oz) broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- 60ml (1/4 cup) peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 60ml (1/4 cup) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 30ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar
- 15ml (1 tbsp) sesame oil
- 15ml (1 tbsp) maple syrup or honey (or agave for vegan)
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 30-60ml (2-4 tbsp) water (to thin the sauce)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 inch piece of ginger, grated
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Press Tofu: Press tofu to remove excess water. Cube.
- Make Peanut Sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Cook Tofu & Vegetables: Stir-fry tofu and vegetables until tender-crisp.
- Combine: Add noodles, tofu, vegetables, and peanut sauce to the skillet. Toss to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Tofu Prep: Toss tofu in cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Vegetable Options: Use snap peas, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Protein Swap: Substitute tofu with chicken, shrimp, or edamame.
- Spice Adjustment: Adjust sriracha to your preferred spice level.
- Nut Allergy: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Serving Suggestions
This #asiandinner is a complete meal on its own. A side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad would also be a delicious addition.
More Asian-Inspired Recipes
For more flavorful Asian-inspired recipes, visit FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com. We're constantly adding new recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure!