Cleanse-Worthy Pad Thai
A Nourishing Twist on a Takeout Favorite
If you’ve ever craved a warm, savory bowl of Pad Thai but didn’t want the heavy oils, sugar, or processed sauces that often come with it—this one's for you.
This Cleanse-Worthy Pad Thai is plant-forward, quick to prepare, and layered with flavor, using whole-food ingredients that support your body’s natural detoxification systems. Whether you’re mid-cleanse, just coming off one, or simply looking for a vibrant, feel-good meal—this recipe is packed with goodness and rooted in balance.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp garlic chili oil (or substitute toasted sesame oil for less heat)
3 tbsp natural peanut butter or almond butter
3 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
1 tbsp raw honey (adjust to taste, or swap for maple syrup for vegan option)
1 tbsp fresh lime juice (to balance and brighten)
2 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang and cleansing support)
Aromatics & Base:
2 tbsp finely chopped garlic
2 tbsp finely chopped shallot
2 tbsp finely chopped green onion
Optional Add-ins (choose your cleanse-friendly favorites):
Scrambled pasture-raised eggs
Sautéed bell peppers
Steamed broccoli florets
Julienned carrots
Grilled chicken or tofu
Serve With:
Brown rice noodles or zucchini noodles
Extra lime wedges
Chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts (optional)
Method
Prepare your noodles:
Cook rice noodles according to package directions. If using zucchini noodles, lightly sauté or leave raw for more crunch and vitality.Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together garlic chili oil, peanut or almond butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and rice vinegar (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.Sauté aromatics:
In a large pan or wok, warm a splash of oil over medium heat. Add garlic, shallot, and green onion. Sauté until fragrant and golden—about 2–3 minutes.Add optional protein/veggies:
If using eggs, scramble them into the pan now. Then toss in your vegetables and/or pre-cooked chicken or tofu. Sauté until tender but still vibrant.Combine:
Add your cooked noodles to the pan, followed by the sauce. Toss everything gently to coat, letting the sauce warm and cling to each strand or spiral.Serve with love:
Plate up your Pad Thai and garnish with fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, a squeeze of lime, and maybe a few chili flakes if you like it spicy.
Cleanse-Friendly Tips
Use almond butter for a lighter, more sattvic feel.
Go heavy on the green veggies for chlorophyll-rich cleansing support.
Opt for coconut aminos if you're avoiding soy altogether.
This dish is naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for vegan diets.
Let this cozy, flavorful bowl remind you that cleansing doesn’t mean deprivation—it means elevating your meals so they serve your body, your mind, and your radiant inner self.
Let me know if you try it, Moon Dancer. I’d love to hear how you make it your own 🌙