Enjoy a healthier version of Pad Thai made with spiralized zucchini noodles. Sauté colorful bell peppers and carrots in avocado oil. Toss them with a zesty sauce made from coconut aminos, lime juice, and peanut butter. Add your favorite protein like shrimp or tofu, then garnish with fresh cilantro and crunchy peanuts. This gluten free pad Thai is a quick and easy dinner!
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Our Gluten-Free Pad Thai is the perfect choice for a tasty and nutritious dinner! This recipe replaces traditional noodles with spiralized zucchini, creating a fresh and healthy base. Tossed with colorful veggies like bell pepper and carrots, and coated in a savory, zesty sauce, this dish is both vibrant and flavorful.
Easy to make and customize with your favorite proteins and spice levels, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner. Garnish with cilantro and peanuts for added crunch. Enjoy!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly: This gluten free pad Thai recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to be soy-free and nut-free.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatile: Customize this recipe with your favorite protein and veggies.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables and protein.
Ingredients & Substitutes
These are the ingredients for this gluten free pad Thai. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the full recipe.
First, use zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes to make the spiral veggie noodles. Buy them pre-spiraled or spiral them yourself at home. If desired, brown rice noodles or spaghetti squash strands also work well.
Cook using avocado oil or olive oil.
For the veggies, we love red pepper, carrots, and green onions.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts.
For the sauce, use coconut aminos. Soy sauce is not gluten free.
A little lime juice adds a delicious acidic flavor.
Use either creamy peanut butter or almond butter. Look for a brand made from only nuts and salt.
To sweeten the sauce, use pure maple syrup or honey. Both work well!
To add a spicy flavor, use sriracha or chili paste. Look for ones made without added sugar.
Lastly, minced garlic adds a delicious garlicky flavor.
Taste & Texture
This gluten-free Pad Thai offers a great balance of flavors and textures.
The spiralized vegetables provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy sauce and protein add richness.
The bold flavors of the sauce, combined with the fresh herbs and crunchy toppings, create a truly unforgettable meal.
How to Make
Step 1
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, lime juice, peanut or almond butter, maple syrup, sriracha (if using), and minced garlic until smooth.
Step 2
Cook the Veggies and Protein: In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, carrots, and green onions, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. If adding egg, push the veggies to one side and scramble the egg on the other side until cooked, then mix it with the veggies. If using shrimp, chicken, or tofu, add it now to heat through.
Step 3
Add the Veggie Noodles and Sauce: Add the spiralized veggie noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Toss gently to coat and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the veggie noodles are tender but still have a slight crunch.
Step 4
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
Follow these tips and tricks to make the best gluten free pad Thai.
Spiralize Your Veggies: Invest in a good spiralizer to create perfect veggie noodles. If you don’t have one, you can use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin strips.
Prep Ahead: Marinate your protein and make the sauce in advance to save time.
Adjust the Heat: Control the spice level by adding more or less chili paste or sriracha.
Get Creative with Toppings: Add fresh lime wedges, crushed peanuts, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Explore these different flavors for your gluten free pad Thai.
Protein: Swap out the shrimp for tofu, chicken, or even steak.
Veggies: Add snap peas, broccoli florets, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Sauce: Experiment with different types of nut butter.
How to Serve & Store
Serve this gluten free pad Thai immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While rice noodles are a traditional ingredient in Pad Thai, double check the labels to make sure they don’t contain gluten. Or, stick to veggie noodles for a truly gluten free meal.
While freezing is not recommended, you can freeze the sauce and veggie noodles separately. Reheat gently and add fresh protein and toppings when ready to serve.
Yes, simply omit any non-vegan ingredients like honey and use a plant-based protein source.
Equipment Needed
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