"Bright, Crisp, and Full of Flavor: Your Go-To Healthy Veggie Noodles!"
Ingredients:
For the Noodles:
- 2 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles, or use a vegetable peeler to make thin ribbons)
- 2 medium carrots (spiralized or julienned)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (thinly sliced, any color)
- 1/2 cup red cabbage (shredded)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup snow peas (sliced diagonally)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Spiralize or julienne the zucchini and carrots using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler.
- Slice the bell peppers, red cabbage, and onion thinly. Set aside.
- If you have a mandolin slicer, it can be very handy to get consistent thin slices for the cabbage and peppers.
2. Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, and chili flakes (if using). Set the sauce aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the bell peppers, cabbage, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
4. Add the Noodles:
- Add the zucchini and carrot noodles to the skillet, tossing them gently with the other veggies. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, just until the noodles are tender but still slightly firm (they cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!).
5. Add the Sauce:
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and noodles, and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional minute or two until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately, either as a light main dish or as a side to your favorite protein.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Vegetable Noodles:
- Adjust the Sauce: You can adjust the sweetness and saltiness by adding more honey or soy sauce based on your preference.
- Add Protein: If you want to make this a more filling dish, add some grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for extra texture.
- Make Ahead: These noodles can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick, healthy meal the next day.
