Saucy Vermicelli with Vegetables and Fresh Herbs

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to boiling. Reduce heat to low, add edamame, and simmer, uncovered, for 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the edamame with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2

Add vermicelli to the same pot of water, and let them sit, fully submerged, for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with ice-cold water. After 5 minutes, scoop out and reserve ½ cup of the cooking liquid. Drain and rinse noodles, and place them in the ice water.

Step 3

For sauce, in a blender, combine the almond butter and the next 9 ingredients (through hot sauce). Add ¼ cup water, and blend until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4

Heat a large sauté pan over medium. Add the broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and a few tablespoons of water to the pan. Saute 4 to 5 minutes, or until broccoli is bright green and fork-tender and the veggies are heated through. Add water, if needed, to prevent burning.

Step 5

Drain noodles again, and add them to the pan along with the edamame. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together with tongs. Use a fork to tease apart any noodles that are stuck together, adding some of the reserved hot cooking water if needed to loosen. Fold in the cabbage, cilantro, and mint. Divide pasta among 4 bowls and serve.