Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your dinner routine! This Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Spaghetti Squash Noodle Bowl is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the aromatic essence of Southeast Asian cuisine with a low-carb twist that will make your palate dance with joy. Imagine tender, marinated beef, vibrant herbs, and a creamy peanut sauce, all nestled on a bed of naturally spiralized spaghetti squash that will make you forget all about traditional pasta.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 1 spaghetti squash
- 2 tablespoons lemongrass, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the spaghetti squash: Carefully cut the squash lengthwise using a sharp knife. Scoop out the seeds and discard. Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 35-40 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- While the squash roasts, prepare the lemongrass beef marinade. In a medium bowl, combine minced lemongrass, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef and massage the marinade into the meat. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Create the peanut sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, remaining soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and 2-3 tablespoons of warm water to create a smooth, pourable consistency. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Quickly stir-fry the marinated beef for 2-3 minutes until it's browned and just cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the spaghetti squash is cooked, use a fork to gently scrape the flesh into noodle-like strands. Transfer to serving bowls.
- Top the squash noodles with the cooked lemongrass beef. Drizzle generously with the prepared peanut sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or Thai basil. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
- Serve immediately while warm, with extra lime wedges on the side for additional brightness.
Tips
- Squash Selection: Choose a firm, heavy spaghetti squash with a deep yellow color for the best texture and flavor.
- Marinating Mastery: Let the beef marinate for the full 15-20 minutes to ensure maximum flavor penetration.
- Sauce Consistency: If your peanut sauce is too thick, gradually add warm water until you achieve a silky, drizzle-able consistency.
- High Heat is Key: When stir-frying beef, use a very hot pan and cook quickly to maintain tenderness and achieve a beautiful caramelization.
- Fresh Herb Hack: Chop herbs just before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the marinade and sauce in advance, making weeknight cooking a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
