Creamy Peanut Noodles & Broccoli

Easy & Healthy Peanut Noodles with Broccoli: A Quick Weeknight Recipe

Dive into a world of vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness with this incredible peanut noodles with broccoli recipe. Designed for convenience without compromising on taste, this dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, satisfying lunches, or whenever you crave a hearty, plant-based meal. It masterfully combines the creamy richness of natural peanut butter with the umami depth of soy sauce, all brightened by a zesty hint of fresh lime juice. The star vegetable, tender-crisp broccoli florets, adds a delightful crunch and a powerful nutritional boost, while the silky rice noodles provide a comforting and satisfying base. Garnished with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, this meal is not only a feast for your palate but also visually appealing, promising a truly enjoyable dining experience for the whole family. Discover how effortlessly you can bring this fusion dish to your table, impressing even the most discerning eaters with its balanced profile and irresistible aroma.

Crafting these delicious peanut noodles with broccoli is straightforward, but it helps to be familiar with some key ingredients that truly elevate the dish. Rice noodles, a cornerstone of many Asian cuisines, are not only wonderfully light and chewy but also offer a naturally gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat pasta, making this recipe accessible to more diners. You’ll typically find them in the international or Asian foods aisle of most supermarkets. Another crucial component for achieving that authentic, aromatic taste is sesame oil. Its distinct nutty fragrance and flavor are irreplaceable, so ensure you have a bottle on hand, even if it’s not a common pantry item for you. Furthermore, fresh ginger and vibrant lime juice are indispensable for cutting through the richness of the peanut sauce, adding a bright, zesty zing that brings all the flavors into perfect harmony. These fresh elements are readily available in the produce section and are well worth seeking out for the depth they bring to this delightful recipe.

delicious peanut noodles with broccoli dish

Key Ingredients for Flavorful Peanut Noodles with Broccoli

Rice noodles: These delicate, translucent noodles, typically made from rice flour, are a staple in Southeast Asian cooking. They offer a wonderfully light and slightly chewy texture that readily absorbs the rich peanut sauce. Their gluten-free nature makes them an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Broccoli florets: The vibrant green, tree-like clusters of broccoli add essential nutrients, a pleasant crunch, and a beautiful pop of color to the dish. Steamed until tender-crisp, they provide a wholesome balance to the creamy noodles.

Peanut butter: The heart of the sauce, creamy peanut butter delivers a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet foundation. Opt for a natural, unsweetened variety for the best control over the sauce’s flavor profile.

Soy sauce: This essential condiment brings a deep umami flavor and salinity to the peanut sauce. It balances the sweetness of honey and the tang of lime, tying all the ingredients together. For gluten-free options, use tamari.

Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a critical component, providing a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter, preventing the sauce from feeling too heavy and adding a refreshing lift.

Honey: A natural sweetener that introduces a delicate balance to the savory and tangy elements of the sauce. It contributes a subtle sweetness and a silky mouthfeel, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.

Garlic, minced: Aromatic minced garlic adds a pungent, savory depth that is foundational to many Asian-inspired sauces. Its robust flavor is indispensable for a truly satisfying sauce.

Ginger, minced: Freshly minced ginger provides a warm, spicy, and fragrant kick that complements the garlic and lime beautifully. It adds an invigorating complexity and a signature Asian flavor to the dish.

Water: Used to thin the peanut sauce to the desired, pourable consistency. It ensures the sauce coats the noodles and broccoli evenly without being overly thick or clumpy.

Sesame oil: This intensely aromatic oil, derived from toasted sesame seeds, imparts a distinctive nutty flavor and fragrance that is characteristic of many Asian dishes. A little goes a long way in adding significant depth.

Sesame seeds: Primarily used as a garnish, toasted sesame seeds add a delicate crunch and an enhanced nutty aroma, visually completing the dish and offering a pleasant textural contrast.

Green onions, sliced: Also known as scallions, these provide a mild, fresh onion flavor and a vibrant green hue as a garnish. They add a fresh, slightly pungent finish that brightens the entire meal.

Expert Technique Tips for Perfect Peanut Noodles

To achieve a truly silky smooth peanut sauce, it’s crucial that your peanut butter is at room temperature before you begin mixing. Cold peanut butter can be stiff and resistant to blending, leading to a lumpy sauce. If it’s too firm, you can gently warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. If the sauce still appears too thick after mixing all ingredients, gradually add an extra tablespoon or two of water until it reaches your desired consistency – a good sauce should be easily pourable yet cling nicely to the noodles.

When cooking the rice noodles, follow the package instructions closely, as cooking times can vary. Once drained, immediately rinse them under cold water. This crucial step not only stops the cooking process, preventing them from becoming mushy, but also washes away excess starch, which is the main culprit for sticky noodles. Rinsing ensures they remain separate and perfectly al dente.

For an extra burst of irresistible nutty flavor and aroma, take a moment to lightly toast your sesame seeds. Simply place them in a dry, non-stick pan over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Watch them carefully as they can burn quickly. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a light golden brown and release a fragrant, nutty scent. This small step significantly enhances their flavor profile and adds a delightful crunch when sprinkled over the finished dish.

To ensure your broccoli is perfectly tender-crisp – cooked through but still retaining a slight bite – steam it until bright green and just fork-tender, typically about 4-6 minutes depending on floret size. Overcooked broccoli can become soft and lose its vibrant color and nutritional value. You can also blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking and preserve their color.

Suggested Side Dishes to Complement Your Peanut Noodles

Crispy Spring Rolls: Elevate your meal with the delightful crunch of golden, flaky spring rolls. Whether filled with a savory mix of fresh vegetables, glass noodles, or even a hint of shrimp, these deep-fried or air-fried morsels offer a fantastic textural contrast to the creamy peanut noodles. Serve them with a sweet chili dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the main course. They are an ideal starter that prepares the palate for the richness to come.
Mango Avocado Salad: Introduce a refreshing tropical note with a vibrant mango avocado salad. Imagine juicy, sweet mango slices mingling with creamy avocado chunks, all tossed in a zesty lime and cilantro dressing. This light and bright salad provides a wonderful counterpoint to the rich, savory peanut sauce, offering a cooling and tangy element that cleanses the palate and adds a burst of freshness.
Spicy Cucumber Kimchi: For those who appreciate a kick, a spicy cucumber kimchi makes an excellent side. The crisp, cool cucumbers, infused with a fiery, tangy, and slightly sweet Korean-style marinade, offer an invigorating contrast. Its bold flavors and refreshing crunch cut through the richness of the noodles, providing an exciting culinary adventure with every bite.
Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: For a heartier side, consider tender sweet potato wedges, roasted to caramelized perfection. Their natural sweetness is enhanced by a simple seasoning of sea salt, black pepper, and perhaps a dash of smoked paprika. These comforting wedges offer a grounding, earthy flavor and a satisfying texture that harmonizes beautifully with the nutty broccoli dish, adding another layer of wholesome goodness.
Coconut Milk Soup: A light yet incredibly flavorful coconut milk soup can provide a soothing and aromatic complement. Infused with ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and a hint of chili, this exotic bowl offers a warm, fragrant experience. Its creamy texture and delicate spices provide a wonderful balance, enveloping the senses and rounding out the meal with an authentic Asian flair.

Smart Ingredient Substitutions for Your Peanut Noodles

  • Rice noodles – Substitute with spaghetti: If rice noodles aren’t available, regular spaghetti makes a surprisingly good alternative. Its robust texture can mimic the chewiness of rice noodles, and it readily absorbs the flavors of the peanut sauce. Just cook it al dente according to package directions.

  • Broccoli florets – Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower is a fantastic stand-in for broccoli. It boasts a similar texture and has a mild flavor that acts as a sponge for the delicious peanut sauce. You can steam, roast, or even lightly stir-fry cauliflower to achieve a tender-crisp consistency.

  • Peanut butter – Substitute with almond butter: For those with peanut allergies or simply seeking a different flavor, almond butter is an excellent choice. It provides a similar creamy texture and a rich, slightly sweeter nutty flavor that works wonderfully in the sauce. Ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.

  • Soy sauce – Substitute with tamari: For a gluten-free option, tamari is the perfect alternative to soy sauce. It offers an equally rich umami flavor with a slightly less salty profile. Coconut aminos can also be used for a soy-free alternative, though it will have a sweeter taste.

  • Lime juice – Substitute with lemon juice: If fresh limes are out of reach, lemon juice can provide a similar bright acidity and citrusy zest. While the flavor profile will shift slightly, it will still offer the necessary tang to balance the rich peanut sauce.

  • Honey – Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup is a fantastic vegan-friendly alternative to honey. It offers a comparable sweetness and viscosity, and its distinct flavor can add an interesting depth to the sauce. Use it in a 1:1 ratio.

  • Garlic, minced – Substitute with garlic powder: While fresh minced garlic offers the most vibrant flavor, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use about ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic, keeping in mind that the flavor will be less pungent and slightly less fresh.

  • Ginger, minced – Substitute with ground ginger: Similar to garlic, fresh ginger is preferred, but ground ginger can serve as an alternative. Use about ½ teaspoon of ground ginger for every tablespoon of fresh minced ginger, adjusting to taste. The flavor will be warmer but less zesty.

  • Water – Substitute with vegetable broth: To infuse even more flavor into your sauce, swap plain water for vegetable broth. This substitution adds an extra layer of savory depth without significantly altering the texture or core taste of the dish.

  • Sesame oil – Substitute with olive oil: While olive oil won’t replicate the distinct nutty flavor of sesame oil, it can be used for its richness and as a cooking fat. For a closer flavor, consider using a neutral oil like canola or grapeseed oil and adding a few drops of toasted sesame oil if you have it.

  • Sesame seeds – Substitute with sunflower seeds: For a similar textural crunch and nutty garnish, sunflower seeds are a great option. They can be lightly toasted to enhance their flavor, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft noodles and tender broccoli.

  • Green onions, sliced – Substitute with chives: Chives offer a milder, more delicate onion flavor and a similar visual appeal to sliced green onions. They make an excellent garnish, adding a fresh, herbaceous note without overpowering the dish.

Explore Similar Delicious Recipes

Spicy Thai Basil Noodles: Embark on a culinary journey to Thailand with these aromatic and fiery basil noodles. This dish typically features broad rice noodles stir-fried with plenty of fresh Thai basil, chili peppers, garlic, and a savory sauce. It’s perfect for those who crave a significant spicy kick balanced by herbaceous notes and umami flavors, offering a lively alternative to peanut-based sauces.
Sesame Ginger Stir-Fry: Experience the classic harmony of Asian flavors with a vibrant sesame ginger stir-fry. This versatile dish allows you to load up on colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms, all quickly cooked in a wok or large pan. Tossed in a deeply flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, it provides a healthy and customizable meal that’s both light and satisfying, often served over rice or noodles.
Coconut Curry Noodles: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with creamy coconut curry noodles. The luscious, fragrant coconut milk forms the base of a rich curry sauce, infused with aromatic curry paste, lemongrass, and often a touch of sweetness. Coating every strand of noodle, this dish can be made with your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, or tofu) and a medley of vegetables for a complete, comforting, and exotic meal.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: For a taste of the Mediterranean, indulge in the zesty and refreshing flavors of lemon garlic shrimp pasta. Succulent shrimp are quickly sautéed with fragrant garlic, then tossed with perfectly al dente pasta and finished with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley. This dish strikes a wonderful balance of lightness and richness, making it an ideal choice for a brighter, seafood-focused meal.
Vegetable Pad Thai: Savor the complex and iconic flavors of a classic Pad Thai, reimagined with a vibrant vegetable twist. This beloved Thai street food features stir-fried rice noodles with a medley of fresh vegetables like bean sprouts, carrots, and cabbage, all coated in a tangy tamarind-based sauce. Garnished with crunchy crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime, it’s a delightful, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s both sweet and savory.

Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Peanut Noodles with Broccoli

  • Microwave Method (Quick & Easy): For the fastest way to warm up your peanut noodles, the microwave is your friend. Place your leftovers in a microwave-safe dish. To prevent the noodles from drying out and to refresh the sauce, add a small splash of water or a few drops of sesame oil. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then stir thoroughly. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through, ensuring even heat distribution for the best results.

  • Stovetop Method (Controlled & Fresh): The stovetop offers more control and can bring your noodles back to a near-fresh state. In a non-stick pan, add a small amount of sesame oil or your preferred cooking oil and heat over medium-low heat. Add the noodles and broccoli, stirring gently but consistently to prevent sticking. If the peanut sauce has thickened considerably, incorporate a bit of water, vegetable broth, or a dash of soy sauce to loosen it up and restore its original consistency. Heat until thoroughly warmed, typically 5-7 minutes, taking care not to overcook.

  • Steamer Basket Method (Moist & Tender): For a wonderfully moist and tender result, especially for the broccoli, a steamer basket is an excellent choice. Place your leftover peanut noodles and broccoli in a heat-safe bowl within a steamer basket set over simmering water. Ensure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the bowl. Cover and steam for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. This method is superb for retaining moisture and keeping the broccoli vibrant and crisp-tender, rather than soggy.

  • Air Fryer Method (Slightly Crispy): If you enjoy a slight crispiness on the edges of your noodles and broccoli, the air fryer can work wonders. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the peanut noodles and broccoli in an air fryer-safe dish or directly in the basket (if it has sides to contain them). For best results and to prevent drying, you might want to cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first few minutes. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, tossing halfway through. Remove the foil for the last minute or two if you desire a crisper texture.

  • Oven Method (Evenly Heated & Mild Crisp): The oven is perfect for reheating larger quantities or if you prefer a more even, gentle warming. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the peanut noodles and broccoli evenly on a baking sheet. Loosely cover with aluminum foil to trap moisture and prevent drying. Bake for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. For a very slight crispiness, remove the foil for the final 2-3 minutes of heating. This method ensures all components are warmed through without becoming tough or overcooked.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Crafting This Recipe

  • Large Pot: Indispensable for cooking the rice noodles according to their package instructions. A generous size ensures the noodles have enough space to cook evenly without sticking.

  • Colander: An absolute necessity for efficiently draining the cooked noodles and rinsing them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.

  • Steamer Basket: Used within a pot to gently steam the broccoli florets until they reach a tender-crisp perfection, retaining their vibrant color and nutrients.

  • Mixing Bowl (Medium): The perfect vessel for whisking together all the ingredients for your luscious peanut sauce – peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and water – until it achieves a smooth, harmonious consistency.

  • Whisk: Your best friend for combining the sauce ingredients effectively. A good whisk ensures there are no lumps and that all flavors are thoroughly incorporated for a consistently creamy sauce.

  • Large Pan or Wok: Ideal for bringing the entire dish together. You’ll use this to heat the sesame oil, then combine the cooked noodles, steamed broccoli, and pour the peanut sauce over, tossing everything to coat.

  • Tongs: Extremely useful for gently tossing the noodles and broccoli with the peanut sauce in the pan. They help distribute the sauce evenly without breaking the delicate noodles or florets.

  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for mincing your fresh garlic and ginger with precision, and for neatly slicing the green onions for garnish. A sharp knife makes prep work safer and more efficient.

  • Cutting Board: A stable and hygienic surface for all your chopping, mincing, and slicing needs, protecting your countertops and providing a firm base for your knife work.

  • Measuring Cups: Crucial for accurately measuring larger quantities of ingredients like peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and water, ensuring the sauce’s flavor balance is just right.

  • Measuring Spoons: Used for precise measurements of smaller quantities such as honey and sesame oil, which are potent flavors and need careful dosing.

  • Serving Dish: A beautiful platter or bowl to elegantly present your finished peanut noodles with broccoli, making it as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Clever Time-Saving Tips for Quick Peanut Noodles

Prep ingredients ahead of time: One of the biggest time-savers is to complete your mise en place (prep work) in advance. Chop your broccoli florets, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions a day or two before you plan to cook. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, ready to be tossed into the pan, significantly streamlining your cooking process on a busy weeknight.

Utilize a “one-pot” or “two-pot” method: To minimize cleanup, try to be efficient with your pots. You can often cook the rice noodles and steam the broccoli in the same large pot. Cook the noodles first, drain, then use the same pot with a steamer basket for the broccoli. This reduces the number of dishes you’ll have to wash, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze.

Prepare peanut sauce in bulk: The peanut sauce is the heart of this dish, and it stores beautifully. Double or triple the sauce recipe and keep the extra in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. This way, your next peanut noodle meal is just minutes away from coming together, requiring only the cooking of noodles and broccoli.

Quick steam broccoli in the microwave: For lightning-fast broccoli, the microwave is surprisingly effective. Place your broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl with a tablespoon or two of water. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. This method is much quicker than stovetop steaming when you’re short on time.

Creamy Peanut Noodles With Broccoli

A quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish featuring tender peanut noodles and fresh, crisp broccoli, perfect for any meal.

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450 kcal

Ingredients 

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • ¼ cup water
  • 2 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 bunch green onions, sliced

Instructions 

  1. Cook the rice noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
  2. Steam the broccoli florets for about 4-6 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Set aside.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and water. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and well-combined.
  4. Heat the sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the cooked rice noodles and steamed broccoli. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over the noodles and broccoli. Toss everything gently with tongs to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly coated in the sauce and heated through.
  5. Transfer the warm peanut noodles and broccoli to serving dishes. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and fresh sliced green onions before serving immediately. Enjoy!

Nutritional Value

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 60mg | Calcium: 100mg | Iron: 3mg

Keywords

Broccoli, Peanut Noodles, Vegetarian, Vegan-friendly, Asian, Quick Dinner
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Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for Your Meal

Perfect Appetizers to Start Your Feast

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Begin your dining experience with these irresistible savory stuffed mushrooms. Select plump mushroom caps, ensuring they are firm and fresh. Prepare a rich and creamy filling by combining soft cream cheese, finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives, and a hint of pungent minced garlic. For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust, mix in a touch of grated Parmesan cheese. Bake the mushrooms until they are tender and the tops are delightfully golden brown and bubbling. Serve them warm, allowing the rich, creamy filling to perfectly melt in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast to the main course.
Fresh and Vibrant Bruschetta: Create a light, vibrant, and utterly fresh bruschetta that perfectly captures the essence of classic Italian flavors. Start with slices of crusty baguette or artisanal bread, toasted until golden and slightly crisp. Top generously with a fresh mixture of ripe, diced tomatoes, fragrant chiffonade of fresh basil, and a delicate drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze. The tomatoes should be bursting with juicy sweetness, beautifully complemented by the aromatic basil. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance all the natural flavors. This appetizer is best enjoyed immediately, offering a burst of summer freshness in every delightful bite.

Delightful Desserts to End Your Meal

Exotic Mango Sticky Rice: Conclude your meal with the truly exotic and comforting flavors of Mango Sticky Rice, a beloved Thai dessert. This delightful treat features perfectly cooked sticky rice, infused with creamy, sweet coconut milk. It’s elegantly paired with slices of ripe, luscious mango, which contribute a natural sweetness and a smooth texture. The dish is further elevated with an additional drizzle of rich coconut sauce, adding a velvety finish that ties all the elements together. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty crunch that beautifully complements the tropical essence. This dessert strikes a perfect balance of sweet and savory, offering a refreshing and satisfying end to any meal.
Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with a decadent Chocolate Lava Cake. This individual dessert promises a warm, irresistibly gooey center of molten chocolate, encased within a delicate, rich cake shell. The magic happens as you cut into the cake, revealing a luscious flow of warm chocolate that creates an exquisite visual and sensory delight. For the perfect pairing, serve it with a scoop of cool, creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of freshly made whipped cream, which enhances the cake’s profound richness. A dusting of fine powdered sugar or a few vibrant fresh berries adds a touch of elegance, making it an utterly irresistible choice for any chocolate enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Noodles with Broccoli

FAQ:
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat and want to kick up the spice level, there are several easy ways to do so. You can generously add a few dashes of sriracha directly into the peanut sauce while whisking, or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish. For a more intense heat, consider adding a finely minced chili pepper (like a bird’s eye chili) along with the garlic and ginger. Always adjust the amount to your personal taste preference, starting with a small amount and adding more if desired.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile when it comes to noodles. While rice noodles are traditional and provide a gluten-free option, you can easily swap them for other varieties based on your preference or what you have available. Soba noodles (buckwheat noodles) offer an earthy flavor, udon noodles provide a thicker, chewier texture, or even regular spaghetti can work in a pinch for a more Italian-Asian fusion. Just be sure to follow the specific cooking instructions on the package for your chosen noodle type to ensure they are cooked perfectly.
What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?
For those with peanut allergies or who simply prefer an alternative, there are excellent substitutes that maintain the creamy texture and nutty flavor profile. Almond butter is a popular choice, offering a rich, slightly sweet taste. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter (often called SunButter) works wonderfully and provides a similar consistency. Cashew butter is another delicious option, known for its milder, buttery flavor. Regardless of your choice, make sure to use an unsweetened, natural version to best control the final taste of your sauce.
How do I store leftovers and for how long?
Storing leftovers correctly ensures they remain delicious for your next meal. Transfer any cooled peanut noodles with broccoli into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they should maintain their quality for approximately 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you might notice the sauce has thickened. To restore its original consistency, simply add a splash of water, vegetable broth, or a tiny bit more soy sauce while reheating, and stir well.
Can I add protein to this dish to make it more substantial?
Definitely! Adding a protein source is a fantastic way to make this dish even more filling and balanced. Cooked grilled chicken strips, pan-seared shrimp, or cubed baked/fried tofu are all excellent additions. For a plant-based protein boost, consider adding edamame or chickpeas. Simply cook your chosen protein separately according to your preferred method, then toss it in with the noodles and broccoli during the final step when you add the peanut sauce. This ensures your protein is perfectly cooked and evenly coated.

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