Recipe:
In this popular takeout dish makeover, zucchini stands in for noodles. Zucchini contains slimming fiber and anti-aging vitamin C. Crumbled tofu provides plant-based protein and iron, which are essential for keeping hair long and strong. Plus, the vitamin C from the zucchini aids in the absorption of the iron from the tofu. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which may help keep eyes clear and sparkling and skin soft and smooth.
This Pad Thai has the perfect balance of flavors — sweet, salty, tangy, savory, and a little bit spicy. The vegetables are cooked until they become tender and pair well with the flavorful sauce. A sprinkle of peanuts on top adds a nutty crunch and scallions provide a bit of sharp bite. (Note: If you can’t find tamarind, you can substitute the same amount of lime juice in its place).
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons peanut butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons tamarind paste
1⁄4 cup low sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon sriracha
2 medium zucchinis, spiralized (or 12 oz pre-spiralized zucchini)
3 cups shredded carrot
3 cups mung bean sprouts
8 oz extra firm tofu, crumbled
3 scallions, sliced
1⁄4 cup peanuts, chopped
Optional lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
In a large skillet or shallow pot, combine peanut butter, garlic, tamarind, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha and heat over medium-high heat. Simmer for a few minutes and then add in zucchini, carrot, mung bean sprouts, and tofu. Cook for 5-10 minutes, until vegetables are cooked and sauce has thickened. Top with sliced scallions and crushed peanuts and serve with lime wedges if desired.
Yields: 4 servings
Per serving: 293 calories, 15.8 g protein, 36.4 g carbohydrates, 6.1 g fiber, 24.6 g sugars, 12.1 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 697 mg sodium, 107 mg calcium, 0.1 g omega-3 fats, 7639 IU vitamin A, 34 mg vitamin C, 0.9 mg vitamin E, 3.1 mg iron, 1.1 mg zinc
Lisa Drayer, M.A., R.D.,
is the author of THE BEAUTY DIET and STRONG, SLIM, and 30! For more of Lisa’s Beauty Bites, visit www.lisadrayer.com.