Get ready for a color explosion in your kitchen with the rainbow peanut noodles recipe! This delightful, veggie-packed noodle dish is not only appealing to the eye but also a flavor burst in the mouth. With a blend of crunchy vegetables and a creamy peanut sauce coating whole-wheat pasta, this recipe brings a balance of textures and flavors that are sure to impress.
Photos of Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe
The unusual ingredient here might be edamame, which are young soybeans. Mostly found in the frozen section of your grocery store, they are a great source of protein, iron, and calcium. The sriracha sauce is a type of hot sauce or chili sauce made from a paste of chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt. It brings a sweet and spicy kick to the peanut sauce.
Ingredients for Rainbow Peanut Noodles
Whole-wheat pasta: This provides a healthier alternative to regular pasta, and it's high in dietary fiber and nutrients.
Peanut oil: Used for sautéing, it has a high smoke point and a slightly nutty flavor.
Vegetables (bell peppers, carrot, red cabbage, and edamame): They bring a variety of colors and health benefits.
Scallions and green onions: They add a touch of freshness and sharpness.
Sesame seeds and peanuts: They add crunchiness and extra flavor.
Peanut butter: It acts as the base for the sauce, providing a creamy, rich taste.
Soy sauce: It adds umami flavor and saltiness to the dish.
Honey: It balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
Rice vinegar: This gives a slight acidity to the dish, balancing out the flavors.
Fresh ginger: It adds a spicy, aromatic zing.
Sesame oil: It gives a toasty, nutty flavor.
Garlic: This brings a classic aromatic flavor.
Sriracha hot chili sauce: It adds a spicy kick to the dish.
One reader, Jamill Wilbur says:
This rainbow peanut noodles recipe is a game-changer! The vibrant colors and flavors make it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. The peanut sauce is rich and savory, and the combination of veggies and pasta is simply delightful. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and healthy meal.
Techniques Required for Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe
How to cook pasta al dente: Cook the pasta in generously-salted water until it is tender but still firm to the bite.
How to make peanut sauce: Whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame oil, garlic, and sriracha until smooth and well combined. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.
How To Make Rainbow Peanut Noodles
A colorful display of vegetables makes this peanut noodles dish appetizing. It’s a flavorful vegetarian meal that will satisfy your hunger well.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Rainbow Pasta:
- 12ozwhole-wheat pasta,I used DeLallo whole-wheat linguine
- 1tbsppeanut oil,or olive oil
- 1red bell pepper,,co and julienned, thinly sliced
- 1yellow bell pepper,cored and julienned
- 1largecarrot,peeled and julienned
- 1cupshredded red cabbage
- 1cupshelled edamame
- thinly-sliced scallions,topping
- green onions,topping
- toasted sesame seeds,topping
- chopped peanuts,topping
For Peanut Sauce:
- ½cupcreamy peanut butter
- ¼cupsoy sauce
- 3tbspwater
- 2tbsphoney
- 2tbsprice vinegar
- 1tbspgrated fresh ginger
- 2tspsesame oil
- 1clovegarlic,peeled
- 1tspsriracha hot chili sauce,optional, or more to taste
Instructions
Rainbow Pasta:
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Cook pasta al dente in generously-salted pasta water according to package instructions.
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Meanwhile, heat oil in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, and edamame, and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, but reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water on the side. Add the pasta and peanut sauce to the saute pan of veggies and toss to combine.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
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Serve immediately, topped with scallions, sesame seeds, and peanuts if desired.
Peanut Sauce:
-
Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl by hand.
Nutrition
- Calories: 443.04kcal
- Fat: 17.18g
- Saturated Fat: 3.15g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.67g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.98g
- Carbohydrates: 61.72g
- Fiber: 3.83g
- Sugar: 10.49g
- Protein: 17.61g
- Sodium: 627.81mg
- Calcium: 69.07mg
- Potassium: 586.07mg
- Iron: 3.58mg
- Vitamin A: 141.03µg
- Vitamin C: 91.97mg
Helpful Technique for Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe
When making the peanut sauce, it's important to add the liquid ingredients first, such as the soy sauce, water, honey, and rice vinegar. This will help the peanut butter to blend more smoothly into the sauce, preventing it from clumping. Additionally, grating the ginger and crushing the garlic before adding them to the sauce will help to release their flavors more effectively.
Time-Saving Tips for Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large pot to cook the pasta and sauté the vegetables simultaneously to save time and reduce clean-up.
Multi-task: While the pasta is cooking, use that time to prepare the peanut sauce and chop any additional garnishes.
Substitute Ingredients For Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe
whole-wheat pasta - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: This substitution is suitable for those who are gluten intolerant or following a gluten-free diet.
peanut oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil provides a similar nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers have a similar sweet flavor and can add a vibrant color to the dish.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers can provide a slightly different flavor profile while still adding color and crunch to the dish.
shredded red cabbage - Substitute with shredded green cabbage: Green cabbage can be used as a substitute for red cabbage, offering a similar texture and flavor.
shelled edamame - Substitute with frozen green peas: Frozen green peas can provide a similar pop of color and texture to the dish.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a milder substitute for scallions, adding a delicate onion flavor to the dish.
toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds can provide a similar nutty crunch to the dish as an alternative to sesame seeds.
chopped peanuts - Substitute with chopped cashews: Cashews can offer a creamy and slightly sweet flavor as a substitute for peanuts in this recipe.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a nutty and creamy base for the sauce.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute for those with gluten sensitivities.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a slightly fruity and tangy flavor as a substitute for rice vinegar.
sesame oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, offering a neutral flavor and high smoke point for cooking.
sriracha hot chili sauce - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can provide a similar spicy kick and garlicky flavor as a substitute for sriracha.
Presenting Rainbow Peanut Noodles
Elevate the plating: When presenting the rainbow peanut noodles, focus on creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement on the plate. Use vibrant and colorful vegetables to create a visually appealing display that reflects the diversity of flavors in the dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a variety of textures to the dish by garnishing with crunchy chopped peanuts and toasted sesame seeds. This will add a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the noodles and the creaminess of the peanut sauce.
Emphasize freshness: Highlight the freshness of the ingredients by arranging the dish in a way that showcases the crisp and vibrant nature of the vegetables. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also convey the use of high-quality, fresh produce.
Balance the colors: Create a visually striking presentation by arranging the rainbow pasta in a way that balances the different hues of the bell peppers, carrots, and red cabbage. This will create a stunning visual effect that is sure to impress.
Attention to detail: Pay attention to the finer details of the presentation, such as the placement of the scallions and green onions. These delicate touches can elevate the overall presentation and demonstrate precision and care in the plating process.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. Thoughtful placement of the noodles and vegetables will create an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Artful drizzling: When adding the peanut sauce to the dish, use an artful drizzling technique to create an enticing visual pattern. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add a touch of culinary artistry to the final dish.
Essential Tools for Making Rainbow Peanut Noodles
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, typically used for making sauces or heating liquids.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically consisting of a handle with loops of wire.
- Cutting board: A durable board used to protect surfaces when cutting or chopping ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a broad blade, used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating foods such as cheese or vegetables.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients together, typically made of glass, metal, or plastic.
- Tongs: A kitchen tool consisting of two arms joined by a hinge, used for gripping and lifting foods.
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Garlic press: A handheld kitchen tool used to crush garlic cloves efficiently.
- Vegetable peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin or peel from vegetables and fruits.
- Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
- Grill: A cooking appliance used for grilling and barbecuing various foods.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating foods.
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used for blending, pureeing, and emulsifying ingredients.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical kitchen tool used for flattening and shaping dough for baking.
- Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for applying sauces, glazes, or oils to food.
- Zester: A kitchen tool used to remove the outer zest from citrus fruits.
Storing and Freezing Rainbow Peanut Noodles
- To store leftover rainbow peanut noodles, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to enjoy, reheat the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir well and heat until warmed through.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the rainbow peanut noodles. Place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw, transfer the frozen noodles to the refrigerator and allow them to defrost overnight. Reheat as mentioned above, adding a bit more liquid if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer than when freshly prepared. However, the flavors will still be delicious!
- If you plan on freezing the noodles, you may want to undercook the vegetables slightly during the initial cooking process, as they will soften further during reheating.
- Consider storing the peanut sauce separately from the noodles and vegetables, as this will allow you to adjust the amount of sauce when reheating and prevent the noodles from becoming overly soggy.
How To Reheat Leftover Rainbow Peanut Noodles
- The best way to reheat leftover rainbow peanut noodles is to use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- If using a stovetop, place the noodles in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the pan to help loosen up the sauce and prevent the noodles from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- To prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy, you can reheat them separately from the noodles. Simply sauté them in a pan with a little oil until they are heated through and slightly crisp.
- If the peanut sauce has thickened up in the fridge, you can thin it out by adding a little water or soy sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
- For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the noodles in a skillet or wok over high heat. Add a little oil to the pan and stir-fry the noodles until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
- To add some extra flavor to your reheated noodles, try topping them with some fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- If you have any leftover protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, you can add them to the noodles when reheating for a more substantial meal.
Interesting Fact About Rainbow Peanut Noodles
Rainbow Peanut Noodles is a vibrant and nutritious dish that is packed with colorful vegetables and a flavorful peanut sauce. It's a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your meal, providing essential nutrients and a beautiful presentation. This dish can be a fun way to introduce kids to different vegetables and whole-wheat pasta. It's also a versatile recipe, allowing you to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in this delightful rainbow peanut noodles dish!
Is Making Rainbow Peanut Noodles at Home Cost-Effective?
This rainbow peanut noodles recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as whole-wheat pasta, bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage makes it budget-friendly. The addition of edamame provides a good source of protein without breaking the bank. The peanut sauce ingredients are also reasonably priced. Overall, this recipe is a solid 8 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15, making it an economical and delicious choice.
Are Rainbow Peanut Noodles Healthy or Unhealthy?
The rainbow peanut noodles recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its use of whole-wheat pasta, colorful vegetables, and protein-rich edamame and peanuts. The peanut sauce, made with natural ingredients like peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and ginger, adds flavor without relying on excessive amounts of processed ingredients. However, the recipe does contain some sources of added sugars and sodium, which could be reduced to make it even healthier.
To further improve the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of honey in the peanut sauce or replace it with a natural sweetener like date syrup or mashed ripe bananas
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the overall sodium content
- Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables used, such as adding mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to minimize added sugars
- Include a lean protein source, like grilled chicken or tofu, to make the dish more balanced and satisfying
- Experiment with different types of whole-grain pasta, such as quinoa or brown rice noodles, for added variety and nutritional benefits
Editor's Opinion on This Rainbow Noodle Recipe
The rainbow peanut noodles recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, carrots, and red cabbage adds a colorful and nutritious twist to the dish, while the creamy peanut sauce brings a rich and savory element. The use of whole-wheat pasta and edamame adds a wholesome touch, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in the peanut sauce creates a harmonious blend that complements the vegetables and pasta perfectly. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and visually stunning culinary experience that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Rainbow Peanut Noodles Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing a vibrant array of fresh, wholesome ingredients. The whole-wheat pasta provides a hearty base, while the colorful assortment of bell peppers, carrots, and red cabbage infuses the dish with a spectrum of nutrients. The addition of protein-packed edamame and the aromatic blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and sesame oil in the luscious peanut sauce promises a harmonious balance of savory and sweet. With its captivating visual appeal and the tantalizing aroma of toasted sesame seeds and chopped peanuts, this recipe is a testament to its irresistible flavors and wholesome ingredients.
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