Rainbow Veggie Noodles.
Bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor, Rainbow Veggie Noodles are a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. They not only add a pop of color to your plate but also pack a nutritious punch with a variety of fresh vegetables that can make anyone excited about eating their greens. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant dinner, these veggie noodles will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Let’s dive into why these vibrant noodles have become a favorite for cooks everywhere!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Cooks are raving about Rainbow Veggie Noodles for several reasons:
– **Nutrient-Dense**: With an array of vegetables, you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals in every bite.
– **Customization**: This dish is highly adaptable; you can swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.
– **Flavor Explosion**: The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and lime juice creates a mouthwatering sauce that pulls all the ingredients together beautifully.
– **Visual Appeal**: The vibrant colors make this dish incredibly Instagram-worthy, making it a hit at gatherings and dinner parties.
What to Buy
Before you start cooking, here’s what you’ll need to gather for your Rainbow Veggie Noodles:
- 1 ounce box Pad Thai noodles – These rice noodles serve as the perfect base.
- 1 medium beet (red and/or yellow), peeled – Adds a sweet, earthy flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 sweet potato, peeled – Provides a creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup frozen edamame, thawed – A great source of plant-based protein.
- 1 red or orange bell pepper, sliced thin – Adds crunch and color.
- 2 carrots, cut into ribbons or matchsticks – Adds a lovely crunch and sweetness.
- 2 radishes, sliced thin – Provides a peppery bite.
- 1 mango, cut into matchsticks – Adds a juicy sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped – For a fragrant, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts – Adds crunch and healthy fats.
- 1 bunch fresh watercress or spinach – For a peppery flavor and extra greens.
- 1/3 cup olive oil – For richness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil – For a nutty aroma and taste.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – For a tangy kick.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated – For a warming spice.
- 1-2 teaspoons sambal oelek or sriracha – For a touch of heat.
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce – For umami flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional but SO good) – Adds depth of flavor.
- Juice of 1 lime – For brightness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – For garnish and flavor.
Equipment at a Glance
Before you begin, gather these essential items:
- Large pot – For boiling the noodles.
- Colander – To drain the noodles.
- Peeler – To prepare your vegetables.
- Sharp knife – For slicing and dicing.
- Large mixing bowl – To combine all ingredients.
- Whisk – For mixing the dressing.
- Serving platter – To present your beautiful dish.
Rainbow Veggie Noodles., Made Easy
Ready to bring this rainbow dish to life? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Pad Thai noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies
While the noodles are cooking, peel the sweet potato and beet. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to cut the beet and sweet potato into thin matchsticks. Prepare the remaining vegetables: slice the bell pepper, radishes, and mango, and cut the carrots into ribbons or matchsticks.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sambal oelek (or sriracha), low sodium soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and lime juice until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, prepared veggies, and fresh basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well coated.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the Rainbow Veggie Noodles to a serving platter. Top with roasted peanuts, fresh watercress or spinach, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your colorful dish!
Adaptations for Special Diets
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rice noodles or zucchini noodles instead of Pad Thai noodles.
- Vegan: Omit the fish sauce, and ensure the soy sauce is plant-based.
- Paleo: Swap the noodles for spiralized vegetables like zucchini or carrots.
- Low-Carb: Use shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables for a lower-carb option.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This dish is all about freshness, so try to use the freshest vegetables available. Feel free to experiment with other veggies you love or have on hand. You can also adjust the heat level by varying the amount of sambal oelek or sriracha according to your taste preference. The flavors in this dish are bright and zesty, making it a perfect summer meal!
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
Rainbow Veggie Noodles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, place the noodles and veggies in an airtight container. If you’re making it for meal prep, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Just give it a good toss with the dressing before serving!
Reader Q&A
Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spiralized vegetables to make it gluten-free or lower in carbs.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, add more sambal oelek or sriracha. You can also incorporate sliced fresh jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes! You can make the Rainbow Veggie Noodles ahead of time. Just store the noodles and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for the mango?
If mango is not available, you can use diced pineapple or even thinly sliced apples for a similar sweetness and texture.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for more quick and delicious meals to prepare during the week, check out these links:
Wrap-Up
Rainbow Veggie Noodles are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of color, flavor, and health. Whether you’re enjoying them as a light lunch or a vibrant dinner, this dish is sure to brighten your day. With a variety of fresh veggies and a zesty dressing, it’s a recipe that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. So grab your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the delightful experience of Rainbow Veggie Noodles.
Rainbow Veggie Noodles.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Noodles - Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Pad Thai noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Veggies - While the noodles are cooking, peel the sweet potato and beet. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to cut the beet and sweet potato into thin matchsticks. Prepare the remaining vegetables: slice the bell pepper, radishes, and mango, and cut the carrots into ribbons or matchsticks.
- Step 3: Make the Dressing - In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sambal oelek (or sriracha), low sodium soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and lime juice until well combined.
- Step 4: Combine Everything - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, prepared veggies, and fresh basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well coated.
- Step 5: Serve - Transfer the Rainbow Veggie Noodles to a serving platter. Top with roasted peanuts, fresh watercress or spinach, and chopped cilantro. Enjoy your colorful dish!
Notes
- Use the freshest vegetables available for the best flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with other veggies you love.
- Adjust the heat level by varying the sambal oelek or sriracha amount.
- This dish is great for meal prep; just keep the dressing separate.
