healthy rice noodle recipe

healthy rice noodle recipe

The Best healthy rice noodle recipe

I have been making this healthy rice noodle recipe for years and it is one of those dishes that always hits the spot. My kids love it because it tastes like takeout but without all the heavy oil and salt. I love it because it is packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but still good for you. Rice noodles are naturally gluten free and light which makes them a great base for a healthy meal. They have a delicate chewy texture that soaks up all the flavor from the sauce without becoming mushy.

In this recipe I use brown rice noodles for extra fiber but regular rice noodles work just as well. The key is to cook them just until tender then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. The sauce is where the magic happens.

I use a mix of low sodium soy sauce fresh ginger garlic and a touch of honey for sweetness. You can add a splash of lime juice or chili flakes if you want a little heat. The vegetables I use are bell peppers carrots snap peas and broccoli but you can swap in whatever you have on hand.

The whole dish comes together in one pan which means less cleanup and more time with your family. This recipe is a staple in our house because it is so versatile. I have served it for casual weeknight dinners and also for small family gatherings where everyone raves about it.

It is light enough for summer but hearty enough for colder months. Plus it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish which is a huge win for any parent. I hope you give it a try and make it your own.

Healthy Rice Noodle Stir Fry

Healthy Rice Noodle Stir Fry

4.8 from 1016 votes

A quick and nutritious rice noodle stir fry loaded with colorful vegetables and a savory ginger garlic sauce. This dish is light yet satisfying and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Noodles

8 ounces brown rice noodles or regular rice noodles
1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

For the Stir Fry

1 tablespoon avocado oil or vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
1 cup snap peas trimmed
1 cup broccoli florets
1 medium carrot julienned
2 green onions sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the rice noodles and cook according to package directions until tender but still chewy, usually 4 to 6 minutes.
3Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking.
4Drizzle with 1 tablespoon sesame oil and toss to prevent sticking.
5In a small bowl whisk together the low sodium soy sauce honey rice vinegar grated ginger minced garlic sesame oil and red pepper flakes if using.
6Set the sauce aside near the stove.
7Heat a large skillet or wok over medium high heat and add the avocado oil.
8Once the oil shimmers add the bell pepper snap peas broccoli and carrot.
9Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are bright and tender crisp.
10You should see slight browning on the edges.
11Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and pour the sauce over everything.
12Toss gently with tongs for 1 to 2 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
13The sauce should thicken slightly and cling to the noodles.
14Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
15Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet or wok
Small bowl
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra protein add cooked chicken shrimp or tofu. You can also use any vegetables you have on hand like zucchini mushrooms or bok choy. To make it vegan use maple syrup instead of honey.

Watch Video Of How Healthy Rice Noodle Stir Fry Works

This healthy rice noodle recipe is one of my go to meals because it is so easy to customize and always comes out delicious. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat just add a splash of water or soy sauce and stir fry in a hot skillet for a minute or two until warmed through. I love serving this dish for family gatherings because it is colorful and satisfying without being heavy.

You can pair it with a simple cucumber salad or spring rolls for a complete meal. Whether it is a busy weeknight or a casual get together this recipe always works well and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Rice Noodle Stir Fry

1. Can I use regular white rice noodles instead of brown rice noodles?

Yes you can use regular white rice noodles. They cook faster and have a slightly softer texture. The brown rice noodles add more fiber and a nuttier flavor but both work well in this recipe.

2. How do I keep the noodles from sticking together?

After cooking and draining the noodles toss them with a little sesame oil or avocado oil. This creates a light coating that prevents clumping. Also make sure to rinse the noodles under cold water to remove excess starch.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and sauce up to a day in advance. Cook the noodles just before serving for the best texture. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet with a splash of water.

4. Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes this recipe is gluten free as long as you use gluten free soy sauce or tamari. Rice noodles are naturally gluten free and all the other ingredients are safe. Always check labels on sauces to be sure.

5. What can I add for more protein?

You can add cooked chicken shrimp tofu or edamame. For a vegetarian option try crispy tofu or tempeh. Simply cook your protein in the skillet before adding the vegetables and follow the rest of the recipe as written.

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