Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful and healthy Asian-inspired recipes! As the pace of life quickens, it’s easy to get stuck in a culinary rut, relying on the same old dishes night after night. But what if you could bring the vibrant flavors and aromas of Asia right into your own kitchen? From spicy stir-fries to savory noodle dishes, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the diverse and exciting world of Asian cuisine, highlighting 20 mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or savory, we’ve got you covered with these quick, easy, and delicious dishes.
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken with Brown Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a hearty brown rice dish. A simple and spicy stir-fry filled with juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp fish sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add ginger, curry paste, broth, fish sauce, and sugar; stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in basil leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over brown rice, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce
Experience the flavors of Vietnam with these refreshing spring rolls, filled with crunchy vegetables and savory shrimp, served with a creamy peanut sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumbers
– 1/4 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
– Peanut sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds, until it becomes soft and pliable.
3. Remove the wrapper from the water and place it on a clean surface.
4. Arrange the mixed greens, carrots, cucumbers, shrimp, and cilantro in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
7. To make the peanut sauce, whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
8. Serve the spring rolls with peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (not including preparation time)
Korean Bibimbap with Quinoa and Vegetables
Experience the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this classic Korean dish, reimagined with quinoa and a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and Gochujang. Pour sauce over vegetables; stir to combine.
5. To assemble Bibimbap, place cooked quinoa in a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture. Garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Miso Salmon with Steamed Bok Choy
This recipe combines the rich flavors of miso-glazed salmon with the tender, slightly sweet taste of steamed bok choy. A perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake (or dry white wine), and honey.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the miso glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the bok choy leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Steam the bok choy leaves in a steamer basket for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
6. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve miso-glazed salmon with steamed bok choy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Garlic Ginger Stir-Fried Tofu
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to create a savory and aromatic stir-fry dish featuring crispy tofu. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Chinese-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil; stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Green Curry with Coconut Milk and Vegetables
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic green curry recipe, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and rich coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, water, and fish sauce (if using); bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves; serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Lean Beef and Rice Noodles
Savor the rich flavors of Vietnam’s national dish, Pho, with this easy-to-make recipe using lean beef and rice noodles. This comforting soup is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (rare steak or thinly sliced), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
3. Add lean beef to the simmering broth and cook until cooked through.
4. Assemble Pho by placing noodles in a bowl, topping with beef slices, and garnishing with cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Cauliflower Rice
A spicy twist on traditional cauliflower rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean kimchi with the crunch and nutty taste of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the kimchi, soy sauce, and roasted cauliflower. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Japanese Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these delectable Japanese Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps, featuring juicy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– Sesame seeds and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 2 tbsp water.
2. Add chicken to the marinade; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade; cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto lettuce leaves, topping with bell peppers and green onions.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Steamed Fish with Ginger and Scallions
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many meals, showcasing the simplicity and elegance of steaming fish to perfection. With the aromatic combination of ginger and scallions, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (about 1 pound), gutted and scaled
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, sliced thinly
– 4-6 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger slices, and scallion pieces.
4. Place the fish in the steamer basket and pour the ginger-soy mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai Papaya Salad with Shrimp and Lime Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional papaya salad, this recipe adds succulent shrimp and a zesty lime dressing for an added layer of excitement.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe green papaya, peeled and grated
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– 1-2 Thai chilies, seeded and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine papaya, shrimp, fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, chilies, and garlic.
2. Toss until the shrimp is well coated with the mixture.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle peanuts or cashews on top of the salad.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Grilled Lemongrass Pork Bowls
Savor the bold flavors of Vietnam with this simple yet impressive recipe. Grilled lemongrass pork, served over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice and topped with crunchy pickled vegetables, makes for a delightful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or pork chops
– 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jasmine rice, cooked according to package instructions
– Pickled vegetables (such as carrot, daikon, and cucumber)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cumin until smooth.
3. Marinate pork in the mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill pork for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve over jasmine rice and top with pickled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Japchae with Sweet Potato Noodles
Experience the comforting flavors of Korea with this simple and delicious Japchae recipe, featuring sweet potato noodles instead of traditional glass noodles. This vegetarian dish is a staple in Korean cuisine, made with stir-fried vegetables and a savory soy-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized sweet potato
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sweet potato noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked noodles, spinach, soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Soba Noodle Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of soba noodles with the savory taste of sesame dressing, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. With its Asian-inspired flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soba noodles
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add toasted sesame seeds and toss again.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chinese Egg Drop Soup with Spinach and Tofu
This comforting and nutritious soup combines the richness of eggs, creaminess of tofu, and the freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in a savory Chinese broth.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame oil for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the broth over medium-high heat.
2. Add the oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
5. Stir in the spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Turmeric Soup with Mushrooms
A creamy and aromatic Thai-inspired soup that combines the warmth of turmeric, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the richness of coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in ginger, turmeric, and coconut milk.
5. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vietnamese Caramelized Ginger Chicken
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Vietnam with the sweetness of caramelized ginger and the savory taste of chicken. A perfect combination for a delicious and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 slices fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (nuoc nam)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add ginger, onion, and garlic to the pan and cook until vegetables are caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add fish sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and lime zest to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the glaze.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Spicy Tofu Stew (Sundubu Jjigae)
This spicy and savory stew is a staple of Korean cuisine, made with soft tofu, vegetables, and gochujang chili paste. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-soft silken tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of Korean chili paste (gochujang)
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chili paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add the water, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the tofu and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with scallions and serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Japanese Avocado and Cucumber Sushi Rolls
Discover the simplicity of making delicious sushi at home with this recipe featuring creamy avocado and crisp cucumber. Perfect for a light and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet in half and place a thin layer of cooked rice onto each half.
3. Arrange the avocado and cucumber slices horizontally on top of the rice, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
5. Slice into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
6. Serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chinese Stir-Fried Broccoli with Garlic and Oyster Sauce
This recipe is a classic Chinese stir-fry that combines the nutritional benefits of broccoli with the savory flavors of garlic, oyster sauce, and soy sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to noodles or rice for a filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 3 cups)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the broccoli into florets and wash under cold water.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the sauce over the broccoli and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Asia with these quick and easy recipes. From spicy Thai basil chicken to Japanese miso salmon, there’s something for everyone. Try Korean bibimbap with quinoa and vegetables or Chinese garlic ginger stir-fried tofu. Enjoy Vietnamese fresh spring rolls with peanut sauce or Thai green curry with coconut milk and vegetables. These healthy Asian recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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