Zesty Shrimp Pad Thai—Without the Guilt

Pad Thai That Loves You Back

Pad Thai is one of those dishes that feels like a hug in noodle form—but it’s usually drenched in sugar and oil. We went back to the basics and rebuilt it with rice noodles, lean shrimp, tamarind, and just a touch of natural sweetener. Topped with a squeeze of lime, crunchy peanuts, and fresh bean sprouts, it’s every bit as addictive—but a lot lighter on your body.

🧄 Ingredients Breakdown:

• Rice noodles (gluten-free & lower-calorie option)

• Shrimp – high-protein, low-fat

• Veggies: bell pepper, scallions, shredded carrots, bean sprouts

• Sauce: tamarind paste, fish sauce, coconut aminos, garlic, chili flakes

• Toppings: crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro, lime wedge

  
  

🍜 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Soak rice noodles in hot water for 10–15 minutes. Drain.

2. Sauté garlic, shrimp, and veggies in 1 tsp sesame oil.

3. Add noodles and toss with sauce mixture (tamarind + coconut aminos + chili).

4. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Serve hot with a handful of bean sprouts, chopped peanuts, and lime.

   
   

❓ FAQ:

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?Yes! Swap shrimp for tofu or edamame.

Q: What's the calorie count per bowl?Roughly 350–400 calories, depending on toppings and portion size.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?Totally. It keeps well in the fridge for a week.

📋 Recipe Card

Healthy Shrimp Pad Thai (Serves 2)

• 4 oz rice noodles

• 8–10 medium shrimp

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• ½ bell pepper, sliced

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tbsp tamarind paste

• 1 tbsp coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)

• ½ tsp chili flakes

• 1 tbsp crushed peanuts

• 1 cup bean sprouts

• Lime wedge + fresh herbs for garnish

  
  

Macros (per bowl):~380 calories | 30g protein | 10g fat | 45g carbs

Lighter, fresher, and still deeply satisfying—this Shrimp Pad Thai proves healthy doesn’t mean boring. Dig in!