Review: Pad Thai noodles...out of a box
Have you tried any of the ready made noodles from Trader Joe's that come in those cute little "take out" containers? I'm guessing that most of you have seen them, but like me, haven't necessarily tried them. I think I've tried nearly everything at Trader Joe's, but I hadn't tried this line of ready-to-go noodles until one of our contest winners used it.
What did I think of the Pad Thai noodles?
Pros: very convenient, especially for someone who wants something quick and portable they can toss together at the office or on the run. It's a common struggle to find good lunch options for busy days at work and at home.
Cons: The texture of the noodles is not perfect, not surprising since they are pre-cooked. And with only the sauce, it's somewhat lacking in color and freshness and texture and taste.
I decided to remedy the "blah" factor with some fresh vegetables that were in the fridge. If you just toss some fresh additions in a small bag and take it along with the container of noodles, you'll have a much tastier and healthier lunch option. Just looking at the before and after pics, I know which one I would want!
Before After
Serving Suggestion (the "after")
To one container of Pad Thai noodles, add:
1 cup shredded carrots (available already shredded at TJ's in the produce section)
1 Persian cucumber, sliced
1/2 green onion, cliced
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Other great additions: bean sprouts, chopped up hearts of palm, crushed peanuts, cilantro, snap peas, snow peas, or even the bags of stir fry vegetables (mostly cabbage)...let me know if you come up with a great combination.
What did I think of the Pad Thai noodles?
Pros: very convenient, especially for someone who wants something quick and portable they can toss together at the office or on the run. It's a common struggle to find good lunch options for busy days at work and at home.
Cons: The texture of the noodles is not perfect, not surprising since they are pre-cooked. And with only the sauce, it's somewhat lacking in color and freshness and texture and taste.
I decided to remedy the "blah" factor with some fresh vegetables that were in the fridge. If you just toss some fresh additions in a small bag and take it along with the container of noodles, you'll have a much tastier and healthier lunch option. Just looking at the before and after pics, I know which one I would want!
Before After
Serving Suggestion (the "after")
To one container of Pad Thai noodles, add:
1 cup shredded carrots (available already shredded at TJ's in the produce section)
1 Persian cucumber, sliced
1/2 green onion, cliced
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Other great additions: bean sprouts, chopped up hearts of palm, crushed peanuts, cilantro, snap peas, snow peas, or even the bags of stir fry vegetables (mostly cabbage)...let me know if you come up with a great combination.
I haven't tried these boxed noodles but it's a good idea for days when I'm back to back with client appointments. Great tip on adding fresh veggies. I would want to eat the "after" as well!
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sold! i have been browsing the blog trying to decide on dinner. i have this in my cupboard, actually i have the green one- the peanut satay. we usually just add brocoli and chicken but i like the idea of taking a new spin on it! thank you :O)
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Right, I know which one I would want too! I just don't think there is anything that can remedy the 'blecchh' factor of prepared noodle sauce. As soon as preservatives go in, taste goes out. Convenience is well and good … but not necessarily worth the price tag in this case!
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