1-First Step: Get everything ready before you start cooking Before the skillet goes on the heat, prep all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp if needed, mince the garlic, julienne or shred the carrot, slice the red bell pepper, and thinly slice the green onions. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth because stir fry moves fast once the heat is on. Set a large pot of salted water on the stove and bring it to a boil for the noodles. In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons honey or agave, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes. Stir until the sauce looks smooth and well mixed.

2-Second Step: Cook the noodles and broccoli Add 8 ounces spaghetti noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. If you are using whole grain or lentil spaghetti, follow the timing on the package closely so the noodles stay firm and do not turn mushy. A sturdy noodle works best here because it holds up to the sauce and the shrimp. During the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, add 3 cups broccoli florets to the same pot. This saves time and gives the broccoli just enough cooking to turn tender but still bright green. When the noodles are al dente and the broccoli is tender, drain both together and set them aside. If you want the best texture, do not rinse the noodles unless your package specifically tells you to.

3-Third Step: Cook the shrimp and vegetables Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound large shrimp along with 3 minced garlic cloves and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until they start turning pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them. Shrimp go from perfect to rubbery very quickly, so pull them from the heat as soon as they are done. Stir in the carrot and red bell pepper, then cook for 1 more minute. You want the vegetables heated through with a little crunch left in them, unless you prefer them softer.

4-Fourth Step: Add the noodles, broccoli, and sauce Add the cooked noodles and broccoli directly into the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and toss gently with tongs or a large spoon until every strand is coated. Keep the heat on medium-high for just long enough to warm the noodles through and let the sauce cling to the ingredients. If the mixture looks a little dry, add a splash of water, broth, or even a small spoonful of the pasta cooking water. This helps the sauce coat the noodles more smoothly. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed, but keep in mind the soy sauce and hoisin already bring a good amount of saltiness.

5-Final Step: Garnish and serve Spoon the shrimp noodle stir fry into bowls and top with 2 to 3 sliced green onions and 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds. Serve it right away while it is hot and glossy. The sesame seeds add crunch, and the green onions bring a fresh finish that brightens the whole dish.