Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups lo mein noodles; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 cup snap peas; 1 cup broccoli florets; 3 green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Highlighted under: Healthy Daily Plates

I love making Vegetable Lo Mein at home, as it's a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies while enjoying delicious flavor. The stir-frying technique creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes, and it's so quick to prepare! In just about 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish that’s packed with nutrients and satisfying for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. I always make extra so I can enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:49:36.873Z

When exploring new flavors in my kitchen, Vegetable Lo Mein became a go-to because of its flexibility. I experimented with whatever vegetables I had on hand, from bell peppers to snap peas, and each combination brought a unique taste to the dish. The real trick is to have everything prepped before you start cooking, as this dish comes together quickly!

I discovered that using a mix of soy sauce and sesame oil really elevates the flavor profile. By adding garlic and ginger during stir-frying, I infuse the whole dish with a wonderful aroma that makes my kitchen smell incredible. It’s truly a dish that pleases my family, and they always ask for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile with any seasonal vegetables you have
Full of vibrant colors and fresh flavors

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

The stir-frying technique is crucial in achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Vegetable Lo Mein. When heating your skillet or wok, make sure to reach a medium-high temperature, ideally around 375°F. This high heat allows the vegetables to sear properly, retaining their crunch while enhancing their natural sweetness. Always add the garlic and ginger first to infuse the oil with their aromatic qualities, ensuring a fragrant base for your dish.

When adding vegetables, start with the ones that take longer to cook, like carrots and broccoli, before introducing quicker-cooking options such as bell peppers and snap peas. This staggered addition ensures that all vegetables finish cooking at the same time, achieving that delightful balance of tender yet crisp textures. Keep the vegetables moving in the pan to prevent burning—aim for vibrant, colorful results that are visually appealing.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

While this recipe calls for bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and broccoli, feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or even mushrooms can be excellent substitutes. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; softer vegetables may require less stir-frying time to maintain their structure. Ensuring each vegetable is cut into uniform sizes (around ½ inch) promotes even cooking and a cohesive dish.

Don’t underestimate the role of the sodium in your soy sauce. It not only contributes flavor but also enhances the overall umami profile of the meal. For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari, which provides a similar taste without wheat. If you’re looking to cut down on sodium, consider low-sodium soy sauce or making a homemade soy sauce alternative using coconut aminos.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftover Vegetable Lo Mein can be a delightful lunch option, so make a bit extra! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil can revive the noodles and prevent them from drying out. Always reheat on low heat to maintain the dish's texture, stirring frequently to heat it evenly without overcooking the vegetables.

If you're planning to meal prep, consider cooking the vegetables just until tender-crisp rather than fully done. This way, when you reheat your dishes later in the week, they won't turn mushy. Alternatively, you can freeze the Vegetable Lo Mein for up to a month. However, for the freshest taste, I recommend enjoying it within a week; the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience!

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

2 cups lo mein noodles
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
1 cup snap peas
1 cup broccoli florets
3 green onions, chopped

Sauce Ingredients

2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Mix all the vegetables and sauce in one bowl for easy cooking!

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Noodles

Boil the lo mein noodles according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Then, toss in the bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender yet crisp.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the vegetable mix, followed by the soy sauce. Stir everything together, letting the noodles soak up the flavors for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Serve hot and delight in the colorful medley!

Pro Tips

For extra protein, feel free to throw in tofu or edamame. You can also adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences, adding a splash of rice vinegar for tang or chili flakes for heat.

Noodle Options and Cooking Tips

While traditional lo mein noodles offer a classic flavor and texture, don’t hesitate to experiment with other noodle types. Soba noodles, rice noodles, or even whole-grain spaghetti can be excellent alternatives, giving you variations in taste and nutrition. To ensure perfect texture, follow the cooking instructions on the packet closely—overcooking can lead to mushiness, while undercooking might leave them too tough. A quick rinse in cold water post-cooking helps to stop the cooking process and keeps them separated for stir-frying.

One common pitfall when cooking noodles is the sticking—this often happens if the cooking water isn't salted or if they aren’t stirred enough while boiling. A tip I follow is to add about a tablespoon of oil to the boiling water; it helps keep the noodles from clumping together.

Flavor Enhancements and Garnishes

To elevate the flavor profile of your Vegetable Lo Mein, consider incorporating additional ingredients such as tofu, which adds protein and a chewy texture. Marinate it briefly in soy sauce before adding it to the stir-fry. Also, a sprinkle of sesame seeds on the finished dish not only adds a nice visual but also enhances the nutty flavor that complements the sesame oil beautifully.

For an extra kick, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the final stages of cooking can infuse the dish with heat. If you enjoy herbal notes, try tossing in some fresh basil or cilantro just before serving for an aromatic finish. Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in customization to suit your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other noodles instead of lo mein?

Absolutely! You can use spaghetti, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Vegetable Lo Mein stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Certainly! Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great options to add protein and make this dish more filling.

→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?

You can use any vegetables you like! Other great options are mushrooms, baby corn, and bok choy.