Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

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Author: Tessa
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Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame has been my go-to for quick, flavorful lunches for years, and it’s a dish that truly transforms simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. I first stumbled upon a version of this recipe during a particularly busy week when I was desperate for a meal prep solution that wasn’t just healthy, but genuinely exciting to eat. As someone who loves creating satisfying vegetarian meals, I’ve spent countless hours in my kitchen perfecting this balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors, ensuring every bite is a pure delight.

This recipe isn’t just about delicious taste; it’s about making your life easier. It’s fantastic for feeding a crowd, but truly shines as a meal prep hero, keeping beautifully in the fridge for days. You’ll find yourself reaching for these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame again and again because they deliver on both convenience and incredible flavor.

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Why You’ll Love These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame aren’t just another dinner recipe; they’re a culinary hug in a bowl! I always come back to this dish for so many reasons. It’s incredibly satisfying, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly good for you.

  • Effortless Ease: Minimal cooking steps mean more time enjoying and less time slaving over the stove.
  • Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory will tantalize your taste buds.
  • Nutrient Powerhouse: Packed with plant-based protein from tofu and edamame, plus plenty of fresh veggies.
  • Meal Prep Dream: Tastes just as good, if not better, the next day, making it ideal for busy weeks.

The Allure of Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

There’s something truly magical about the way the rich, nutty peanut sauce clings to every strand of noodle, complemented by the crisp-tender edamame and vibrant veggies. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that hits all the right notes – comforting yet exciting, familiar yet exotic. These Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame are simply irresistible.

Essential Equipment for Your Spicy Peanut Noodles

You’ll be happy to know that making these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame doesn’t require any fancy gadgets or obscure kitchen tools. Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen drawers! I’m all about keeping things simple and accessible, so you won’t find any complicated machinery here. Just a few basics will get you from ingredients to a delicious meal.

  • A large pot for cooking pasta
  • A large skillet for browning tofu
  • A medium-sized bowl for whisking the sauce
  • A large mixing bowl for combining everything
  • Basic measuring cups and spoons
  • A whisk or fork

Ingredients for Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

Making delicious Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame starts with gathering the right ingredients. I always say, good food begins with good components, and this recipe is no exception! You’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh produce to bring this dish to life. Don’t worry, none of these are hard to find, and I’ve even included some tips for preparing them.

Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame - detail 1

  • 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 block (14-16 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1-2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup hot water (or more, to thin the sauce)
  • 2 cups shelled edamame, frozen or fresh
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

How to Prepare Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

Making these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame is a straightforward process, but paying attention to a few key steps will ensure you get that restaurant-quality result every time. I’ll walk you through each part, from prepping your ingredients to perfectly coating every noodle. The beauty of this recipe is how efficiently it comes together once you get a rhythm going!

First things first, get your pasta cooking according to the package directions. While that’s bubbling away, you can start on the tofu. Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your pressed and cubed tofu. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crispiness on all sides, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step; that crispy texture is essential for contrast in your final dish! Once done, remove the tofu and set it aside.

By now, your pasta should be ready. Drain it thoroughly and, this is important, rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together, which is crucial for a good noodle salad. Now, we’re ready to make that incredible peanut sauce!

Crafting the Perfect Peanut Sauce for Your Noodles

The peanut sauce is truly the heart and soul of these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame. In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, maple syrup, chili garlic sauce (start with 1 tablespoon and add more later if you like extra heat!), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Now, gradually whisk in the hot water. This is where you control the consistency. Keep whisking until the sauce is super smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, just add a little more hot water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable, yet still substantial, consistency.

Assembling Your Spicy Peanut Noodles

With your pasta cooked, tofu crisped, and sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together for your Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame! In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, your golden-brown tofu, the shelled edamame, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and julienned carrot. Now, pour that glorious peanut sauce right over the top. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until every single strand of pasta and every piece of tofu and veggie is evenly coated in that rich, spicy, and savory sauce. Finally, stir in the fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of lime, or pack it up for later!

Tips for Perfect Spicy Peanut Noodles

To truly elevate your Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that I’ve learned over many batches. First, always taste your peanut sauce before adding it to the noodles. This is your chance to adjust the spice level – love heat? Add more chili garlic sauce! Prefer it milder? Start with less. You can also play with the sweetness by adding a touch more maple syrup. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other vegetables too; steamed broccoli florets, thinly sliced cucumber, or even some fresh spinach wilted in at the end are fantastic additions. Remember, these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame are delicious served both warm and cold, making them incredibly versatile.

Storing and Reheating Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

One of the best things about these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame is how well they keep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can eat them cold straight from the fridge, or gently warm them in the microwave for a minute or two. If they seem a little dry after being refrigerated, a splash of water or a tiny bit more soy sauce can help loosen up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Peanut Noodles

I get a lot of questions about these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame, and I love helping you tailor this recipe to your preferences! Here are some of the most common inquiries I receive, along with my best tips for making this dish perfect for you and your family.

Can I make these Spicy Peanut Noodles gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make your Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame gluten-free, simply swap out the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free pasta alternative and ensure you use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.

What are good protein additions to Spicy Peanut Noodles?

While the tofu and edamame provide plenty of protein, feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even some pan-fried tempeh to your Spicy Peanut Noodles for an extra boost!

How spicy are these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame?

The spice level in these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame is totally customizable! I suggest starting with 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce for a mild kick, and then adding more to taste if you prefer a fiery dish.

Estimated Nutritional Information for Spicy Peanut Noodles

I know many of you like to keep an eye on the nutritional aspects of your meals, so I’ve included estimated values for these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame. Please remember these are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. This recipe is designed to be a satisfying, balanced meal, packed with plant-based goodness!

Share Your Spicy Peanut Noodles Experience

I absolutely adore hearing from you! If you whip up a batch of these Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what you thought, how you customized it, or if you discovered any new favorite additions. Don’t forget to rate the recipe, and if you share your delicious creations on social media, tag me! I can’t wait to see your take on this flavorful dish.

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Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame

Spicy Peanut Noodles with Edamame


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  • Author: Tessa
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This recipe makes a big batch of spicy peanut noodles with edamame, perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. It is a flavorful and satisfying dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 block (14-16 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 12 tablespoons chili garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup hot water (or more, to thin the sauce)
  • 2 cups shelled edamame, frozen or fresh
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, chili garlic sauce, ginger, and garlic. Gradually whisk in the hot water until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked tofu, edamame, red bell pepper, and carrot.
  5. Pour the peanut sauce over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Stir in the fresh cilantro.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. Garnish with chopped peanuts and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

  • For extra spice, add more chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • You can add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or spinach.
  • This dish can be served warm or cold.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
Tessa

Passionate home cook with a serious sweet tooth. I believe food should be simple, comforting, and shared. On this blog, you'll find fuss-free recipes that feel like home. the kind you make once and never forget. Come hungry and stay awhile!

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