Description
This Noodle-Free Tofu Pad Thai offers a fresh, healthy twist on the classic dish by replacing traditional noodles with shaved carrots and zucchini ribbons. Tossed in a tangy tamarind-based dressing and topped with creamy peanut sauce, raw tofu, cilantro, and crunchy peanuts, this vegan and gluten-free entrée is quick to prepare and perfect for a light yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 Tbsp tamarind sauce
- 1 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (gluten-free as needed)
- 1 medium lime, juiced
- 1 tsp Asian chili garlic sauce
- 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp ginger powder as substitute)
- 1 Tbsp agave or maple syrup (or honey if not vegan)
Pad Thai
- 5 medium carrots (washed and ribboned with vegetable peeler)
- 1 medium zucchini (washed and ribboned with vegetable peeler)
- 1/4 cup firm tofu (drained, pressed and cubed)
Toppings
- Peanut sauce
- Sriracha
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together tamarind sauce, low sodium soy sauce, lime juice, Asian chili garlic sauce, fresh grated ginger, and agave or maple syrup. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired for balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.
- Toss the vegetables: Add the shaved carrots and zucchini ribbons into the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the tofu: Gently fold in the drained, pressed, and cubed firm tofu, tossing carefully to combine without breaking the tofu pieces.
- Assemble and serve: Divide the noodle-free pad thai between two serving plates. Top each plate with a drizzle of peanut sauce, fresh cilantro leaves, a dash of sriracha for heat, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for crunch. Serve immediately for best freshness and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute 1/4 tsp ginger powder for the 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger if needed.
- Nutrition information is a rough estimate based on half the recipe with 1/4 cup peanut sauce included.
- Best enjoyed fresh as textures and flavors are optimal right after assembly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Entrée
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
