Healthy Shrimp Pad Thai
Healthy Shrimp Pad Thai. A light version of everyone's favorite takeout dish that's so easy and delicious! Ready in 15 minutes and gluten free.
Healthy Shrimp Pad Thai. A light version of everyone's favorite takeout dish that's so easy and delicious! Ready in 15 minutes and gluten free.
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- lime wedges (for serving)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 ounces dry brown rice noodles (rice sticks)
- 8 ounces medium or large shrimp (peeled and deveined (you c lightly pat the shrimp dry prior to cooking))
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts*
- 1/2 cup freshly grated carrots
- 2 large green onions ((or 3 small) finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce** (gluten free if needed)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar (i used seasoned)
- 1 tablespoon honey (plus additional 1-2 teaspoons to taste)
- 1-3 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
- Carbohydrate 1.37662600029308 g
- Cholesterol 423 mg
- Fat 11.4271226638002 g
- Fiber 0.301839996275389 g
- Protein 13.2716806668368 g
- Saturated Fat 3.29875053293291 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (242g)
- Sodium 405.449133336949 mg
- Sugar 1.07478600401769 g
- Trans Fat 1.72516446660317 g
- Calories 161 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. They should be soft but not mushy. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: fish sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, water, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce. If you prefer a sweeter pad thai, add additional honey. For spicier, add additional chili paste.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium high. Add the shrimp and cook just until the shrimp begins to turn pink, about 2 minutes.
- Add the garlic and noodles. Stir continuously to coat the noodles and shrimp with the garlic, then push the ingredients in the skillet over to one side of the pan.
- Crack the eggs into the empty side of the skillet. Break apart the yolk with the spatula and let cook for 30 seconds, until just beginning to set. Stir the egg in with the noodles.
- Stir in the sauce.
- Add the bean sprouts, carrots, and chopped green onions and let cook until the bean sprouts are crisp-tender, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle on the peanuts and cilantro.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges.
My Easy, Healthy Weeknight Pad Thai
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the general chaos of everyday life, the last thing I want to do when I get home is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've become a master of quick, easy, and healthy recipes, and this shrimp pad thai is a perfect example. It's a lighter, healthier take on a takeout favorite, ready in just 15 minutes—a lifesaver on a busy weeknight!
Forget those greasy, overly-sweet versions you find at takeout places. This recipe allows me to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful meal. I love the vibrant colors and the satisfying combination of textures: the chewy noodles, the juicy shrimp, the crunchy bean sprouts, and the satisfying crunch of the peanuts. It's a complete meal, packed with protein, vegetables, and just the right amount of sweet and savory flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly adaptable. If you don’t have bean sprouts on hand, you can easily substitute with broccoli florets or shredded cabbage for a similar texture and nutrition boost. If shrimp isn’t your preference, you can use chicken, tofu, or even just vegetables. The possibilities are endless!
The Secret to a Perfect Pad Thai
The key to a truly delicious pad thai lies in the sauce. It's the heart of the dish, bringing together all the flavors. I use a simple combination of fish sauce (for that authentic umami flavor), rice vinegar (for tanginess), soy sauce (for saltiness), honey (for sweetness), and a touch of chili garlic sauce (for a little kick). You can easily adjust the amounts of each ingredient to match your personal taste preferences. Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Want it spicier? Add more chili garlic sauce. It's all about finding your perfect balance.
Another tip is to make sure your noodles are cooked perfectly. They should be soft and tender, but not mushy. Overcooked noodles will result in a soggy dish. Rinse them under cool water after cooking to prevent them from sticking together. And for the shrimp, I like to cook them just until they're pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them tough.
Beyond the Recipe: A Quick and Healthy Lifestyle
This shrimp pad thai recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the idea that eating healthy doesn't have to be time-consuming or complicated. Busy schedules shouldn't be an excuse for neglecting our health. With a little planning and some smart shortcuts, it's possible to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals even on the busiest of days. I often double this recipe, so I have leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors actually seem to meld even better after a night in the refrigerator, making for an even more delicious meal the next day!
I encourage you to experiment with different ingredients and customize this recipe to your liking. Add some chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrients, or use a different type of noodle if that's what you have on hand. The possibilities are endless, and the beauty of this recipe is its versatility. It’s a perfect example of how a simple, quick meal can be both delicious and healthy, freeing up time and energy for the other important things in life.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful and healthy meal, give this shrimp pad thai a try. It's my go-to weeknight dinner, and I hope it becomes one of yours too.
