Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas: A Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Delight
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that showcases the best of plant-based cuisine, then this Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas recipe is perfect for you. This dish is a vibrant, balanced meal that combines fresh vegetables, protein-rich tofu, and savory Asian noodles, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: It takes just 30-40 minutes to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Packed with Nutrients: Tofu offers a great source of plant-based protein, while the vegetables bring vitamins and fiber to the table.
Customizable: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and lime gives the dish an authentic Asian flavor profile that is both savory and refreshing.
Ingredients for Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas
200g extra-firm tofu (rich in plant-based protein)
2 tsp tamari or soy sauce (tamari for a gluten-free option)
2cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
2 tbsp lemon or lime juice (for tangy freshness)
1 tsp sesame oil (adds a rich, nutty flavor)
90g vermicelli rice noodles (light and gluten-free)
2 tsp rapeseed oil (for frying)
1 tsp sesame oil (for stir-frying the vegetables)
1 spring onion, finely sliced
½ red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
100g sugar snap peas (for a crunchy texture)
100g pak choi (or spinach for an alternative)
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
Juice of ½ a lime (for a zesty kick)
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)
How to Make Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Drain the tofu by placing it on a few layers of kitchen paper. Put more paper on top, and then place a heavy weight, such as a pan, on it to press out the moisture. Leave for at least 15 minutes.
Cut the tofu into cubes and marinate it with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and lime juice for 0 minutes to 1 hour. This will give the tofu a deep, savory flavor while keeping it tender on the inside.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the tofu is marinating, cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Fry the Tofu
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of rapeseed oil.
Fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Before removing the tofu from the pan, pour in any leftover marinade and let it sizzle for a few seconds to create a flavorful glaze.
Remove the tofu from the pan and cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In the same frying pan or wok, heat sesame oil over high heat. Add the spring onions, garlic, ginger, and red chili, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
Add the sugar snap peas, pak choi, and red pepper to the pan and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes. The vegetables should still be slightly crunchy but beginning to soften.
Step 5: Combine the Noodles and Vegetables
Drain the noodles from the cold water and add them to the pan with the vegetables. Toss everything together until well combined.
Drizzle with soy sauce and lime juice, and cook for another minute until the noodles are fully coated and the dish is sizzling.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Divide the noodle and vegetable mixture between two bowls. Top each bowl with crispy tofu cubes, and drizzle over any remaining juices from the pan.
Sprinkle with freshly chopped coriander for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why This Recipe is Perfect
Health Benefits: This dish is loaded with nutrients. Tofu is an excellent source of complete protein, while pak choi is rich in vitamins C, K, and folate. The sugar snap peas provide fiber and antioxidants, and the combination of fresh ginger and garlic offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Vegan and Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally vegan, and by using tamari instead of soy sauce, it’s also gluten-free. This makes it a perfect option for anyone following a plant-based or gluten-free diet.
Flexible Ingredients: Don’t have pak choi? You can easily swap it for spinach or kale. Similarly, if you’re out of sugar snap peas, broccoli or green beans make a great alternative
Tips for the Perfect Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas
Use Extra-Firm Tofu: The firmer the tofu, the better it will hold its shape when fried. Make sure to press it well to remove excess moisture before cooking.
Control the Heat: Stir-frying is done best at high heat, but keep an eye on the garlic and ginger to ensure they don’t burn. Stir constantly for even cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: The beauty of this dish is in the crunchy vegetables, so stir-fry them just long enough to soften slightly but maintain their texture.
Health Benefits of Tofu and Pak Choi
This recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s also incredibly healthy. Tofu is a great source of plant-based protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also rich in iron, calcium, and magnesium, making it a great addition to any diet.
Pak Choi is another powerhouse ingredient. Low in calories and high in nutrients, it’s an excellent source of vitamins C, K, and A. Pak choi also contains important minerals like calcium and potassium, making it a great choice for heart health and bone strength.
What to Serve with Asian Noodles with Tofu
If you’re looking to make this meal even heartier, here are a few great side dishes:
Miso Soup: A warm, light starter that complements the fresh flavors of this dish.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, cool side dish that pairs perfectly with the spicy and tangy noodles.
Spring Rolls: For added crunch, serve crispy vegetable spring rolls as a side or appetizer.
Conclusion: A Deliciously Healthy Meal
This Asian Noodles with Tofu, Pak Choi & Sugar Snap Peas recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. It’s quick to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and offers a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just cooking for yourself, this vibrant dish will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.