Nutty Peanut Spinach Udon Delight
This vibrant vegan dish features tender udon noodles and fresh baby spinach, all tossed in a nutty, aromatic sauce. It s perfect for lunch, served warm or cold!
Ingredients
- 1 bundle udon (or 1 serving soba, about 76 grams)
- 1 ½ cups baby spinach
- 2 green onions, sliced thin, divided
- ½ tablespoon peanut butter
- ½ tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or more to taste)
- ½ tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced very fine
- ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ tablespoon agave nectar (or honey, if not vegan)
- Dollop of sambal oelek (chile-garlic sauce, optional)
- Black sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the udon noodles according to package directions.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the spinach by chopping 1 ½ cups of baby spinach.
- In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients: peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and agave nectar. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain and rinse them to cool.
- In the pot, combine the chopped spinach and all but a pinch of the green onions. Place the hot noodles on top and let sit for about 3 minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss everything gently to combine and coat.
- Garnish with the reserved green onion and sprinkle black sesame seeds on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
Approximate Information for One Serving:
- Calories: 110 cal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Sodium: 571 mg
- Potassium: 189 mg
- Total Carbs: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Net Carbs: 7 g
- Vitamin A: 2110 IU
- Vitamin C: 8 mg
- Calcium: 61 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
Tips for Perfecting Your Nutty Peanut Spinach Udon Delight
To truly elevate your Nutty Peanut Spinach Udon Delight, consider the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, organic baby spinach will provide a vibrant color and a crisp texture, while premium udon noodles will ensure the best flavor and chewiness. Additionally, using natural peanut butter without additives will enhance the nutty flavor of the sauce. Remember to taste your sauce before adding it to the noodles; adjusting the ingredients to your liking can make a significant difference in the overall taste. For those who prefer spicy dishes, adding more sambal oelek can add that extra kick!
Enhancing Nutritional Value
If you re looking to boost the nutritional content of your dish, consider adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. These not only add color but also provide additional vitamins and minerals. You can also add plant-based protein sources like edamame or tofu. If you re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Incorporating a variety of vegetables ensures a balanced meal while keeping it delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep. If you re packing it for lunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top for an added crunch. Pairing this nutty udon with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad can round out the meal beautifully. For a more substantial dinner, serve it alongside grilled tofu or tempeh to complement the flavors.
Storage Tips
Leftovers from your Nutty Peanut Spinach Udon Delight can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you find the noodles have absorbed too much sauce and become dry, simply add a splash of water or additional soy sauce when reheating. Enjoying this dish the next day can offer a new flavor profile as the ingredients meld together overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute udon noodles for another type of noodle?
Absolutely! While udon noodles are traditional for this dish, you can substitute them with soba noodles, rice noodles, or even whole wheat spaghetti for a different texture and taste.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free udon or rice noodles, and ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free (look for tamari as an alternative).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepped in advance. Just prepare the noodles and sauce, and store them separately in the fridge. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don t have peanut butter?
If you re allergic to peanuts or simply don t have peanut butter on hand, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter as a delicious alternative.