Are you craving a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this incredible Easy Pad Thai Salad! Bursting with authentic Thai flavors, this refreshing dish combines the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory elements that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves delicious quick meals, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup Pad Thai sauce
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
- While the noodles are soaking, wash and prepare the vegetables. Rinse the shredded carrots and bean sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Slice the green onions, using both the white and green parts for added flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened rice noodles, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Drizzle the Pad Thai sauce over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Use a pair of tongs or your hands to gently toss everything together, ensuring that the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients.
- Once everything is well mixed, transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top of the salad for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve the salad with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad just before eating to enhance the flavors.
- This Easy Pad Thai Salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a refreshing dish later. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Noodle Perfection: Always follow package instructions for soaking rice noodles, and be careful not to overcook them. They should be soft but still have a slight bite.
- Sauce Secrets: For an extra flavor boost, consider making your own Pad Thai sauce or choosing a high-quality pre-made version.
- Fresh is Best: Use the freshest vegetables possible for maximum crunch and flavor. If bean sprouts aren't available, you can substitute with julienned cucumber.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make this a more substantial meal.
- Lime Juice Hack: Add lime juice just before serving to keep the salad crisp and prevent soggy noodles.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 322kcal
Carbohydrates: 61g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
