Description
Zesty low-carb zucchini pad thai offers a delightful twist on classic Thai street cuisine. Spiralized zucchini noodles replace traditional rice noodles, creating a light and satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 large egg
Protein and Seasoning:
- 1/3 cup chopped peanuts
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Sauce and Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable or coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) all-purpose flour dissolved in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of water (or cornstarch)
Garnish:
- Cilantro or sliced green onion
Instructions
- Crack the egg into a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat, gently scrambling until fully cooked. Transfer the scrambled egg to a separate plate and set aside.
- Create the flavor base by whisking together zesty lime juice, savory soy sauce, spicy chili sauce, sweet honey, aromatic garlic, and rich hoisin sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Elevate the skillet temperature to medium, adding remaining oil. Pour the sauce mixture and simmer for 2 minutes, then incorporate the flour-water blend until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, approximately 3 minutes.
- Introduce spiralized zucchini noodles into the simmering sauce, carefully tossing to ensure complete coating. Allow the noodles to soften and absorb flavors for 2-3 minutes, maintaining a slight crunch.
- Reintegrate the previously scrambled egg into the zucchini mixture, gently folding to distribute evenly. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of crunchy chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions. Serve piping hot for maximum flavor and texture.
Notes
- Swap zucchini noodles with spiralized cucumber or hearts of palm for extra low-carb variety and unique texture.
- Enhance protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu directly into the pad thai for a more substantial meal.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe completely gluten-free, ensuring those with sensitivities can enjoy this delicious dish.
- Control sauce thickness by gradually adding flour-water mixture, allowing you to customize the consistency based on personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg