Summer Squash Pad Thai

In this “spiralized” vegetable noodle recipe inspired by pad Thai, zucchini and summer squash replace the rice noodles, pumping up the vegetables while reducing calories. Top with stir-fried chicken, shrimp or tofu for added protein if desired.

Prep/Cook Time: 35 Minutes, Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 pounds zucchini (2-3 medium)
• 1 1/4 pounds yellow summer squash (2-3 medium)
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons chile-garlic sauce
• 1 teaspoon peanut oil plus 1/4 cup, divided
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 6 scallions, sliced in 1-inch pieces
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 4 lime wedges (optional)

Directions

1. Using a spiral vegetable slicer or a julienne or regular vegetable peeler, slice zucchini and summer squash lengthwise into long, thin strands. Stop when you reach the seeds in the middle (seeds make the noodles fall apart). You should have about 12 cups of squash “noodles.”
2. Combine vinegar, fish sauce, honey and chile-garlic sauce in a small bowl. Place near the stove.
3. Set a 14-inch flat-bottom carbon-steel wok or large skillet over high heat until hot. Swirl in 1 teaspoon oil. Add eggs and cook, without stirring, until set, 30 to 40 seconds. Flip over and cook until set on the other side, about 30 seconds more. Transfer to a plate.
4. Swirl the remaining 1/4 cup oil into the wok (or pan). Add the squash noodles, bell pepper, scallions and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add bean sprouts and the reserved sauce and toss until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes.
5. Slice or chop the egg. Serve the noodles topped with the egg and garnished with peanuts, cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.

© Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission.