If you’re looking for healthy food options that are both filling and delicious, then incorporating noodles into your meals is a great way to start. Noodles come in several varieties, including rice, soba, and whole wheat, giving you plenty of options to try out in your recipes. By switching out unhealthy ingredients like processed sauces and meats for fresh vegetables and lean proteins, you can make healthy recipes with noodles that are both nutritious and flavorful. In this article, we’ll explore some great recipes to help you get started on your healthy eating journey.
What Are Healthy Noodles?
Noodles are a popular dish in many cuisines worldwide, but not all of them are considered healthy. Some varieties of noodles are high in refined carbohydrates and processed ingredients that are not beneficial for the body. On the other hand, there is a growing selection of noodle alternatives that are made from nutrient-dense ingredients that can provide health benefits. Below are some of the most popular types of healthy noodles and their benefits for the body.
1. Whole Wheat Noodles
Whole wheat noodles are a healthier alternative to regular noodles made from refined flour. They are made from whole grains that still contain the bran and germ, which are rich in fiber, protein, and minerals that are essential for good health. Some of the benefits of whole wheat noodles include:
- Improved digestion: The fiber in whole wheat noodles helps to keep the digestive system running smoothly, preventing constipation and other digestive issues.
- Lowered risk of chronic diseases: The nutrients in whole wheat noodles, such as magnesium, zinc, and folate, have been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
- Weight management: Whole wheat noodles have a lower glycemic index than refined noodles, meaning they are digested more slowly and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time. This can help with weight management and prevent overeating.
2. Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are a popular gluten-free and low-carbohydrate alternative to regular noodles. They are made from spiralized zucchini, which can be eaten raw or cooked. Some of the benefits of zucchini noodles include:
- Low in calories: Zucchini noodles contain fewer calories than regular noodles, making them a great option for those who want to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Rich in antioxidants: Zucchini is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Improved digestion: The fiber in zucchini can improve digestion and prevent constipation. It can also help to feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can improve overall gut health and boost the immune system.
3. Shirataki Noodles
Shirataki noodles are a type of Japanese noodle that are made from the roots of the konjac yam. They are very low in calories and carbohydrates and have a unique, gelatinous texture. Some of the benefits of shirataki noodles include:
- Low in calories: Shirataki noodles contain only a few calories per serving, making them an excellent option for those who want to lose weight.
- High in fiber: Shirataki noodles are rich in glucomannan, a type of soluble fiber that can help to reduce cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar control, and promote feelings of fullness.
- Good for gut health: The soluble fiber in shirataki noodles can also feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut, improving overall gut health and reducing the risk of certain diseases.
How to Choose the Right Noodles
With so many different varieties of noodles available, it can be overwhelming to choose the healthiest option. Here are some factors to consider:
The Type of Flour Used
The type of flour used to make noodles can have a significant impact on their healthiness. Opt for noodles made from whole grains, such as whole wheat or brown rice, which are higher in fiber and nutrients than those made from refined flour.
- Whole Wheat Noodles: Made from flour that contains the entire wheat grain, these noodles are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can help keep you feeling full for longer and promote healthy digestion.
- Brown Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and low in fat, these noodles are a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or those trying to cut back on carbs. They are also a good source of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Buckwheat Noodles: Commonly called soba noodles, these noodles are made from buckwheat flour, which is rich in protein and essential amino acids. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight loss.
The Processing Method Used
The processing method used to make noodles can also affect their nutritional value. Look for noodles that are made using traditional processing methods, such as air-drying and sun-drying, as opposed to those that are fried or pre-cooked:
- Air-Dried Noodles: These noodles are dried naturally for several days, which preserves their nutrition better than other methods. They are also lower in calories and fat than their fried counterparts.
- Sun-Dried Noodles: Similar to air-drying, sun-drying is a natural method that does not involve any artificial heat or chemicals. This process also helps to retain nutrients and produces a firmer texture.
- Fried Noodles: While tasty, fried noodles are the least healthy option as they are high in trans-fat and sodium. Consuming these types of noodles regularly can lead to various health problems, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
10 Healthy Noodle Recipes to Try
If you are a noodle enthusiast who wants to stay healthy while still enjoying a good, flavorful meal, then you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll share with you 10 healthy noodle recipes from different cuisines that you can try at home. These recipes use a variety of noodles, such as zucchini noodles, buckwheat noodles, and shirataki noodles, all of which are nutritious and tasty alternatives to regular pasta. Time to explore new flavors!
Buckwheat Soba Noodles with Spicy Scallion Sauce
If you love spicy food, you’ll adore these buckwheat soba noodles with spicy scallion sauce. Buckwheat soba noodles are gluten-free and high in fiber, so they’re an excellent choice for anyone who wants to add more whole grains to their diet. The spicy scallion sauce is made with garlic, ginger, scallions, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes, and it gives the noodles a bold kick. You can top the dish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions for extra flavor and crunch.
Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Pesto
If you’re looking for a low-carb and keto-friendly option, then zucchini noodles are perfect for you! Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are made by spiralizing fresh zucchini, so they’re a great way to increase your vegetable intake. This recipe calls for tossing the zoodles with a rich and creamy avocado pesto made with fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can add cherry tomatoes, pine nuts or almonds on top to complete the dish.
Chicken and Vegetable Shirataki Noodle Stir Fry
Shirataki noodles are very low in calories and high in fiber, making them a popular choice for weight loss and blood sugar control. This stir-fry recipe combines chicken breast, mushrooms, bell peppers, cabbage, and shirataki noodles in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and ginger. The result is a colorful and nutritious meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Thai Coconut Curry Noodles with Shrimp
This Thai-inspired dish is full of flavor and color, thanks to the use of coconut milk, red curry paste, shrimp, and colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas. You can use rice noodles or buckwheat noodles to soak up the curry sauce and spice up the dish. This recipe is perfect if you want to impress your guests with an exotic and healthy meal.
Spaghetti Squash Noodles with Meat Sauce
Spaghetti squash noodles are a great substitute for traditional spaghetti noodles, especially if you’re trying to decrease your carb intake. This recipe suggests sautéing the spaghetti squash noodles with a homemade meat sauce made with lean ground meat, tomato sauce, garlic, and oregano. You can top the dish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese to add more flavor. This meal is perfect for a cozy night in.
Miso Ramen with Tofu and Vegetables
Ramen lovers, rejoice! This healthy version of miso ramen is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. The broth is made with miso paste, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, while the noodles are made with buckwheat flour. The toppings are tofu, bok choy, mushrooms, and bean sprouts; however, you can add whatever leftover vegetables you have in your fridge to make it even more nutritious and fulfilling. This meal will warm you up on a cold day.
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
This noodle salad is perfect for a picnic or a summer gathering. It’s made with cooked and chilled soba noodles, cucumbers, carrots, and red peppers, dressed in a tangy sesame sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. You can top the dish with toasted sesame seeds and scallions for an extra crunch. This recipe is simple, tasty, and healthy.
Vietnamese Pho with Beef and Rice Noodles
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup made with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat or tofu. This recipe calls for beef broth and sliced beef, but you can also use chicken or vegetables if you prefer. To boost the nutrition, we recommend adding bean sprouts, Thai basil, and lime wedges on top. The soup is comforting, tasty, and healthy, perfect for cold and weary days.
Sweet Potato Noodles with Peanut Sauce
If you enjoy sweet potatoes, you’ll love this noodle recipe that uses them as noodles! Spiralized sweet potatoes are sautéed and then mixed with a creamy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and spices such as cumin and coriander. You can top the dish with chopped peanuts or cashews to add more texture. This meal is rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Eggplant and Tomato Pasta with Whole-Wheat Spaghetti
This recipe combines two nutritious vegetables, eggplant, and tomatoes, to create a tasty pasta sauce. You can use whole-wheat spaghetti or any other whole-grain noodles you prefer. The sauce is made with garlic, onion, and canned tomatoes, flavored with oregano, and spiced up with red pepper flakes. The eggplant is roasted until tender and then added to the sauce. This meal is simple yet satisfying, perfect for busy weekdays.
How to Make Homemade Noodle Alternatives
If you are bored with traditional pasta and want to experiment with healthier options, then you’re in the right place. The following recipes and techniques will guide you on how to make homemade noodle alternatives that are not only delicious but nutritious as well.
Spaghetti Squash Noodles
Spaghetti squash is a winter vegetable that is known for its stringy, pasta-like texture. Here’s how to make spaghetti squash noodles:
- Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove its seeds.
- Brush the inside of the squash with olive oil, paprika, and salt.
- Roast the squash in a preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes at 425°F or until tender.
- Using a fork, scrape the flesh of the squash into long, thin strands.
- Serve with your favorite sauce.
Sweet Potato Noodles
Sweet potato noodles are a great alternative to pasta if you’re looking for a lower-carbohydrate option. Here’s how to make sweet potato noodles:
- Peel and spiralize 2 to 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sweet potato noodles to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with sautéed vegetables or your favorite sauce.
Carrot Noodles
Carrot noodles are a colorful and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. Here’s how to make carrot noodles:
- Peel and spiralize 2 to 3 medium-sized carrots.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the carrot noodles to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
- Serve with marinara sauce or as a side dish.
Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles or “zoodles” are a popular alternative to pasta, and for good reason. They’re low in carbohydrates and high in fiber. Here’s how to make zucchini noodles:
- Peel and spiralize 2 to 3 medium-sized zucchinis.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
- Serve with garlic and lemon sauce or with sautéed vegetables.
Now that you know how to make homemade noodle alternatives, you can experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own unique dishes that are both healthy and delicious.
Tips for Cooking Healthy Noodles
If you’re a fan of noodles, you’re not alone. However, the noodles you often find in restaurants and pre-packaged meals are often highly processed and full of unhealthy additions. Fortunately, you don’t have to give up noodles if you’re interested in healthy eating. Here are some tips for cooking healthy noodles that you can enjoy without feeling guilty:
Use Whole-Grain Noodles
White noodles are made from refined flour, which means they’re high in carbs and low in fiber. Whole-grain noodles, on the other hand, are made from whole grains, which means they’re packed with fiber and other nutrients. As a result, whole-grain noodles can help you feel full longer, regulate your digestion, and aid in weight management. So the next time you’re shopping for noodles, look for those made with whole grains. You can also try noodles made from alternative flours, such as quinoa or chickpea flour, for added nutritional benefits.
Avoid Overcooking
Overcooked noodles can become mushy and lose their texture, but they can also lose nutrients. When noodles are overcooked, they release more starch into the cooking water, which means they lose some of their nutritional value. Therefore, be sure to cook your noodles until they’re just tender but not too soft. Also, be sure to rinse your noodles with cool water to stop the cooking process and remove any excess starch. This will help keep your noodles firm and nutritious.
Pair with Nutrient-Rich Sauces and Toppings
When it comes to sauces and toppings, not all are created equal. Cheese, cream, and fried meats can add unnecessary saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories to your meal. Instead, try nutrient-rich toppings like vegetables, herbs, and spices. You can also add lean protein sources like tofu, chicken, or seafood. Consider trying a stir-fry using vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms, with a sauce made with low-sodium chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Not only is this an easy way to pack in more nutrients, but it’s also a great way to experiment with flavors in your cooking.
Make Your Own Sauce
Pre-made sauces are often full of added sugars, salt, and other additives. By making your own sauce, you can control the ingredients and create a healthier alternative. Consider making a tomato sauce from fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and basil. Or try making a pesto from fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. These homemade sauces are quick, easy, and can add a ton of flavor to your noodles.
Experiment with Different Types of Noodles
There are many different types of noodles available, from spaghetti to soba. Each type has its own texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits. Experiment with different types of noodles to find the one that you enjoy the most. For example, buckwheat noodles are high in fiber and can provide healthy carbohydrates and protein. Shirataki noodles are made from glucomannan, a fiber with health benefits like improving cholesterol levels. Zucchini noodles are low-carb, low-calorie, and a great source of vitamins. Whatever noodle you choose, be sure to pair it with nutrient-rich ingredients to create a satisfying, healthy meal.
FAQs About Healthy Noodles
As one of the most popular carbohydrate-rich foods in the world, noodles can be made from various ingredients, such as wheat, rice, and even chickpea. However, despite noodles being a staple food item, not everyone is well-versed in what makes a noodle healthy. Here are answers to common questions about healthy noodles.
What is the Difference Between White and Wheat Noodles?
The primary difference between white and wheat noodles lies in the type of flour used. White noodles are made from refined flour, which is derived from processing wheat. During the refining process, the bran and germ are removed from the wheat, leaving the endosperm, which has less fiber and fewer nutrients. On the other hand, wheat noodles are made from the whole wheat kernel or flour, which contains the bran, germ, and endosperm, making it more nutritious and fibrous than white noodles.
Are Gluten-Free Noodles Healthier?
Gluten-free noodles may be beneficial for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity; however, they are not necessarily healthier than gluten-containing noodles. Gluten-free noodles are typically made from natural ingredients such as brown rice, buckwheat, or quinoa flour, which may be more nutritious than refined wheat flour, but often they are stripped of their natural nutrients and fortified with synthetic vitamins and minerals. Moreover, they tend to have fewer fibers than wheat-based noodles and may have higher fat and sugar content to mimic the texture and taste of gluten-containing noodles.
Do Noodles Have Nutritional Value?
Noodles, especially those made from whole grains or legumes, can be nutritious and provide essential nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and B vitamins, including folate. However, the nutritional value of noodles varies depending on the type and brand, as well as how they are cooked and served. For instance, plain boiled noodles are healthier than fried or instant noodles that are often loaded with sodium, MSG, and artificial flavorings. Additionally, adding vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats to noodles can increase their nutritional value.
What is the Healthiest Type of Noodles?
The healthiest type of noodles is one that is made from whole grains or legumes and has a low glycemic index (GI). Whole-grain noodles, such as whole wheat, brown rice, or soba noodles, contain more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined noodles. Legume-based noodles, such as black bean or mung bean noodles, are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. Low-GI noodles can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent overeating.
How Many Calories Do Noodles Have?
The calorie content of noodles depends on the type, serving size, and the sauce or toppings used. On average, one cup (160g) of cooked noodles provides around 200-250 calories, with the majority coming from carbohydrates. To reduce calorie intake, consider using smaller portions of noodles or mixing them with low-calorie vegetables, lean protein, or broth.
Can Diabetics Eat Noodles?
People with diabetes can eat noodles in moderation, preferably those with a low GI and high fiber content, which can help control blood sugar levels. It is essential to avoid over-portioning noodles and pairing them with sugary or high-fat sauces and toppings, as these can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain. Consult with a registered dietitian to create a healthy meal plan that includes noodles in moderation.
Stay Healthy and Noodle On!
Thank you for taking the time to read about healthy recipes featuring noodles. Eating healthily doesn’t have to be bland or boring. With these noodles, you can combine health and taste in one delicious meal. So, grab those ingredients and get cooking. Don’t forget to bookmark this site and visit often for more healthy recipes that you and your family will love. Stay healthy and noodle on!