Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai Recipe for Flavorful Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Welcome to a culinary adventure where the bold flavors of Nashville meet the vibrant zest of Thai cuisine—all in a wholesome, vegan-friendly dish! This Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai recipe is a game-changer for those craving something fresh, spicy, and utterly satisfying without any animal products.

Imagine silky rice noodles tossed with crisp veggies, creamy avocado slices, and a tangy, slightly smoky sauce that nods to Nashville’s famed heat. It’s a fusion that’s as colorful as it is delicious, perfect for plant-based food lovers and anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring new tastes, this recipe combines texture, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make on a weeknight or impress guests with a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is tasty.

Dive in and discover why this Pad Thai is fast becoming a favorite in the vegan kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai blends the best of two culinary worlds: the vibrant, fresh elements of traditional Pad Thai with a fiery Nashville twist. You’ll love it because:

  • It’s completely plant-based, but packed with protein and rich, creamy textures thanks to the avocado.
  • The spicy Nashville-style sauce adds a smoky, bold kick that wakes up your taste buds.
  • Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy evenings or when you want a flavorful meal without fuss.
  • Customizable to your spice tolerance and ingredient preferences.
  • Nutritious and satisfying, combining fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and wholesome noodles.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles (flat, about 1/4 inch wide)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1/2 cup diced green onions (scallions)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola oil)
  • 1/4 cup tamari or soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for Nashville heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy umami lift)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling noodles
  • Large non-stick skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander or strainer
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tofu press or heavy object for pressing tofu (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 4-6 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
  2. Press and cube the tofu: While noodles cook, press the tofu to remove excess moisture (about 15 minutes). Cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
  3. Make the Nashville pad Thai sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust spiciness by adding more cayenne if desired.
  4. Sauté the tofu: Heat neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove tofu and set aside.
  5. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add toasted sesame oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and green onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
  6. Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the prepared Nashville sauce over the top. Toss everything gently to coat the noodles and veggies evenly.
  7. Add tofu and avocado: Return the crispy tofu cubes to the skillet and toss gently. Remove from heat, then fold in the sliced avocado carefully to maintain its shape.
  8. Finish with fresh herbs and toppings: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and nutritional yeast (if using) over the dish for added flavor and texture.
  9. Serve immediately: Plate your Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai hot, with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips & Variations

For the perfect tofu texture, pressing it well is key—this helps it crisp up wonderfully without becoming soggy.

  • Spice level: Adjust cayenne pepper and smoked paprika to your heat preference.
  • Veggie swaps: Try adding snap peas, bell peppers, or bean sprouts for extra crunch.
  • Noodle options: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative.
  • Nut-free version: Skip peanuts and use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a crunchy topping.
  • Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter into the sauce for a richer texture.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 49 g
Dietary Fiber 9 g
Fat 16 g
Saturated Fat 2.5 g
Sodium 650 mg
Vitamin C 35% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides to balance the bold flavors. Consider serving your Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai with:

  • A crisp cucumber salad with a splash of rice vinegar and sesame seeds
  • Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt for a protein boost
  • Fresh lime wedges and extra crushed peanuts on the side for added zest and crunch
  • A cool, creamy drink like a coconut water or a vegan Green Goodness Juice Recipe to refresh your palate

Conclusion

This Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai recipe is a flavorful fusion that brings together the best of spicy Southern and tangy Thai cuisines in a wholesome plant-based meal. Its blend of creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and the smoky Nashville heat makes it a standout dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

Easy to make and highly adaptable, it’s perfect for anyone looking to explore vegan cooking with a delicious twist.

Whether you’re new to vegan recipes or a seasoned foodie hunting for fresh ideas, this dish proves that plant-based meals can be exciting, satisfying, and packed with personality. For more delicious vegan inspiration, check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe or try a sweet treat like the classic Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy your culinary journey!

📖 Recipe Card: Avo Nashville Vegan Pad Thai

Description: A vibrant vegan twist on classic Pad Thai featuring creamy avocado and spicy Nashville-style seasoning. This dish is packed with fresh veggies, rice noodles, and a tangy tamarind sauce.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • 2 tbsp tamarind paste
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Soak rice noodles in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add soaked noodles and toss with tamarind paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sriracha.
  4. Stir in shredded carrots and green onions, cook for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and gently fold in diced avocado and bean sprouts.
  6. Serve topped with chopped peanuts and extra green onions.

Nutrition: Calories: 380 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Marta K

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