I LOVE Pad Thai but I don’t love all of the calories and sodium that accompany my Pad Thai takeout orders {sigh}. I was craving a Pad Thai dish that was both delicious AND nutritious. After doing a lot of research and a little grocery shopping, I ended up concocting a healthier version of my beloved Pad Thai take-out,- Quinoa Pad Thai- which I guarantee does NOT disappoint!
As you can probably guess from the title, this Pad Thai recipe uses quinoa instead of noodles. I know you’re probably thinking “you can’t have Pad Thai without noodles”, and this was the EXACT reaction I got from Greg the first time I made this. I promised him that he would like it and agreed that if he didn’t I would buy Pad Thai takeout for both of us. The pressure was on! But, sure enough after he took this first bite, I think the words that came out of his mouth were something along the lines of “I don’t like it…I LOVE it“. It was hard to tell because hardly stopped to breathe until he had finished his entire bowl! Success!
This recipe generously serves 4 people, meaning that depending on how hungry you are, you will probably have leftovers. This is one of my go-to recipes for when I know I’m going to have a hectic week because it reheats very well and lasts for about 5 days sealed in a Tupperware container. I like to make it towards the beginning of the week, usually on Sunday, and eat the leftovers on those days when I’m exhausted and/or get home from work too late to cook.
FYI, this is one of my FAVORITE recipes, and I’m excited to share it with all of you!
Before you get started, I want you to know that I designed this recipe to be made three ways. You can elect to make this recipe using 1) only chicken, 2) only tofu, or 3) half chicken, half tofu. I usually make half chicken and half tofu version. Be sure to pay close attention to the instructions for “all chicken or all tofu” or “half chicken, half tofu” highlighted in the recipe for serving sizes and directions so that you can confidently make the rendition of this dish that you prefer!
I would like to mention that regardless of the version you are making, you will cook the Quinoa and sauce FIRST. Once the Quinoa and Sauce are finished, you will cook your stir-fry, which you will add the Quinoa and sauce into later. If you are making the “half chicken, half tofu” version, please note that you will cook the tofu version first using half of the veggie mix, quinoa, and sauce.
Let’s get started!
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