Vegetarian Coconut Noodles: Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Vegetarian coconut noodles bring together the perfect balance of creamy coconut milk, fragrant spices, and tender noodles for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This dish combines fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and the subtle sweetness of coconut milk, creating a flavor profile that feels luxurious yet light.
Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a make-ahead meal, vegetarian coconut noodles are versatile and quick to prepare. The combination of textures—soft noodles, crunchy vegetables, and rich sauce—makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to reduce meat in your diet, or simply craving something flavorful and wholesome, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Rice noodles | 200 g | 220 kcal |
| Coconut milk | 1 cup (240 ml) | 445 kcal |
| Carrot | 1 medium, julienned | 25 kcal |
| Bell pepper | 1 medium, sliced | 25 kcal |
| Broccoli florets | 1 cup | 55 kcal |
| Onion | 1 small, sliced | 28 kcal |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | 9 kcal |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | 20 kcal |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp | 4 kcal |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 kcal |
| Fresh cilantro | 2 tbsp, chopped | 1 kcal |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | 0 kcal |
| Red chili flakes (optional) | 1 tsp | 6 kcal |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the noodles
Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. - Add vegetables
Toss in carrots, bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook for 3–4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. - Prepare the coconut sauce
Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. - Combine noodles and sauce
Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan. Toss everything together until noodles are evenly coated in the coconut sauce. - Season and garnish
Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Sprinkle fresh cilantro and red chili flakes on top if desired. - Serve hot
Plate immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add protein: Include tofu, tempeh, or edamame for extra protein.
- Change the veggies: Swap or add zucchini, snap peas, baby corn, or mushrooms.
- Spice it up: Increase chili flakes or add sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Make it nutty: Top with toasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
- Low-fat option: Use light coconut milk or reduce the amount of oil.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 950 kcal* |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 50 g |
| Carbohydrates | 110 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
*This is for the full recipe serving 2–3 people.
Serving Suggestions
Vegetarian coconut noodles are delightful on their own but can be paired with:
- Fresh spring rolls for a light appetizer
- Steamed dumplings for an Asian-inspired feast
- A side of pickled vegetables or kimchi for tanginess
- Fresh lime wedges to enhance the coconut flavor
Vegetarian Coconut Noodles: Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
2–3
servings10
minutes15
minutes950
kcalIngredients
Ingredient Quantity Approximate Calories
Rice noodles 200 g 220 kcal
Coconut milk 1 cup (240 ml) 445 kcal
Carrot 1 medium, julienned 25 kcal
Bell pepper 1 medium, sliced 25 kcal
Broccoli florets 1 cup 55 kcal
Onion 1 small, sliced 28 kcal
Garlic 2 cloves, minced 9 kcal
Soy sauce 2 tbsp 20 kcal
Lime juice 1 tbsp 4 kcal
Olive oil 1 tbsp 120 kcal
Fresh cilantro 2 tbsp, chopped 1 kcal
Salt & pepper To taste 0 kcal
Red chili flakes (optional) 1 tsp 6 kcal
Directions
- Cook the noodles: Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; cook until fragrant.
- Cook vegetables: Add carrots, bell pepper, and broccoli. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Make coconut sauce: Pour in coconut milk and soy sauce. Simmer 3–5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add cooked noodles to the pan. Toss until evenly coated.
- Season and garnish: Add lime juice, salt, pepper, cilantro, and chili flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy warm for best flavor and texture.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Noodle Tip: Don’t overcook the rice noodles—they should be tender but still slightly firm to avoid becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add any seasonal vegetables you like—zucchini, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn work great.
FAQs
1. What are vegetarian coconut noodles?
Vegetarian coconut noodles are a dish made with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy coconut milk-based sauce. It’s light, flavorful, and completely meat-free, making it a perfect option for vegetarians or anyone craving a wholesome, plant-based meal.
2. Can I use other types of noodles?
Yes! While rice noodles are traditional, you can also use soba noodles, udon, or even spaghetti for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the noodle type.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a drizzle of sriracha to the coconut sauce. Adjust the heat to your preference for a mild or fiery dish.
4. Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Absolutely! Tofu, tempeh, edamame, or chickpeas are great plant-based protein options that pair perfectly with coconut noodles.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free rice noodles and tamari instead of regular soy sauce, the dish is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Vegetarian coconut noodles offer a delicious, wholesome meal that is both comforting and easy to prepare. The creamy coconut sauce, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles come together in a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors, veggies, and protein to suit your taste. Once you try it, this vegetarian coconut noodle dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
