Chinese Style Spaghetti: A Quick and Healthy One-Dish Meal
This Chinese Style Spaghetti recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights when you’re looking for something delicious, hearty, and quick to prepare. With a mix of fresh vegetables, a savory soy sauce marinade, and the hearty protein boost from extra firm tofu, this dish is not only filling but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking to create a meat-free meal or prefer to substitute the tofu with a meat option, this recipe is flexible enough to suit your preferences.
Recipe Overview:
- Recipe Category: One-Dish Meal
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 587.25
- Difficulty: Easy
- Rating: 4.5/5 (Based on 2 reviews)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Firm Tofu | 300 grams | Cut into 1/4-inch cubes |
| Garlic Clove | 1 | Minced |
| Fresh Ginger | 2 inches | Grated or finely chopped |
| Light Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon | For marinating the tofu |
| Dark Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds a rich, deep flavor |
| Onion | 1/2 medium-sized | Thinly sliced or chopped |
| Sugar | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances out the savory soy sauce |
| Ketchup | 1 tablespoon | Adds a slight tang and sweetness |
| Spaghetti | 6 oz | Cooked according to package directions |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 587.25 kcal |
| Fat Content | 15.8 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 2.9 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 458.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 458.9 g |
| Fiber Content | 20.5 g |
| Sugar Content | 18.7 g |
| Protein Content | 85.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tofu:
Start by cutting the extra firm tofu into 1/4-inch cubes. This size ensures the tofu will cook evenly and absorb the marinades well. -
Marinate the Tofu:
In a bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, light soy sauce, and dark soy sauce. Add the tofu cubes to the mixture, ensuring each piece is coated. Let it marinate for about 20 minutes so the tofu can absorb all the flavors. This step enhances the taste and infuses the tofu with that deep umami flavor typical of Asian cuisine. -
Cook the Tofu:
Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add a little oil of your choice. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tofu cubes and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they are lightly browned on all sides. This adds texture and a subtle crispness to the tofu. -
Add Vegetables:
Next, add the onions to the pan and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Once the onions begin to soften, add any additional vegetables you are using. For this recipe, you can use a mix of bell peppers, carrots, or even bok choy, depending on what you have in your fridge. Allow the vegetables to cook, stirring occasionally, until they reach your desired level of tenderness (about 5-7 minutes). -
Combine with Pasta:
While the tofu and vegetables are cooking, prepare your spaghetti according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and add it directly to the pan with the tofu and vegetable mixture. Add the ketchup and sugar at this point to bring everything together. Stir well to combine and let the ingredients simmer for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the dish is ready, serve the Chinese style spaghetti hot. You can top it with additional soy sauce, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or some freshly chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Tips for Customization:
- Protein Swap: While tofu is a fantastic vegetarian option, feel free to swap it out with chicken, beef, or shrimp for a more traditional protein choice.
- Vegetable Variations: Get creative with the vegetables you use. Broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas would make great additions to this dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you’re avoiding gluten, swap out the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.
- Extra Heat: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to spice up the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Chinese Style Spaghetti is not only fast and easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile, letting you use whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, and with its balance of protein from tofu and carbohydrates from pasta, it makes a fulfilling, healthy, and satisfying meal. The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauces, and ketchup gives the dish a savory-sweet flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a family or just cooking for yourself, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite.
Enjoy this easy and healthy Chinese Style Spaghetti recipe, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media or in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, check out other one-dish meals on Love With Recipes for more quick and nutritious ideas.
