Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 1 carrot, julienned; 3 green onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Express Plate Creations

I've always been a fan of quick and easy meals that are both satisfying and packed with flavor, which is why I love making Vegetable Lo Mein. This dish lets me customize my vegetables based on what I have at home, and in just 30 minutes, I have a lovely bowl of noodles that rivals takeout. The combination of soy sauce, fresh veggies, and tender noodles makes it a delightful dinner any night of the week, and I can't get enough of how delicious and colorful it is!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:49:36.707Z

When I first tried making Vegetable Lo Mein at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was. I experimented with various sauces and vegetables, finally landing on the perfect mix that suits my family's tastes. The key to this dish is stir-frying the vegetables just until they're crisp-tender, which maintains their vibrant colors and nutrients.

Another tip I learned is to use fresh egg noodles, as they soak up the sauce beautifully and give the dish a wonderful texture. After perfecting my method, it’s now one of my go-to recipes for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful array of fresh vegetables for a healthy boost
Simple, satisfying dish that can be ready in 30 minutes
Easily customizable based on seasonal produce

Why Choose Lo Mein Noodles

Lo mein noodles are not only quick to cook but also have a delightful chewy texture that complements stir-fried vegetables perfectly. When boiling them, take care not to overcook; aim for a tender yet firm bite, as they’ll continue to soften slightly once mixed with the hot vegetables and sauces. If lo mein noodles are unavailable, you can substitute them with cooked spaghetti or even rice noodles, though the overall texture of the dish may vary.

Additionally, lo mein noodles often come fresh rather than dried, which enhances their flavor and texture. Keep an eye out for fresh options in your local grocery store’s refrigerated section; they can dramatically elevate your dish with minimal additional effort. Remember, if using dried noodles, make sure to rinse them under cold water after cooking to prevent sticking before combining them with the stir-fried veggies.

The Power of Fresh Vegetables

In Vegetable Lo Mein, the choice of vegetables is crucial for both flavor and nutrition. The bell peppers provide a sweet crunch, while broccoli and snap peas offer vibrant color and a satisfying snap when bitten into. Carrots add an earthy sweetness and beautiful visual contrast. Feel free to substitute with other seasonal veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bok choy; just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

To maintain the vegetables' crunchiness, always stir-fry them over high heat for a short period. Cooking them quickly allows the natural sugars to caramelize slightly, enhancing their flavor without turning them mushy. If you find that your vegetables are overcooked, a splash of cool water can help revive them, but timing is key—keep an eye on them while they sizzle in the pan.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a hearty Vegetable Lo Mein that’s bursting with flavor!

Ingredients

8 oz lo mein noodles
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
1 carrot, julienned
3 green onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap or add any vegetables you prefer to make this dish your own!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Vegetable Lo Mein:

Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically about 5–6 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrot. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until just tender.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing everything together. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper as desired and enjoy!

This delicious meal pairs perfectly with a side of steamed rice or your favorite spring rolls!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

Vegetable Lo Mein can be a great candidate for meal prep. Cook the noodles and vegetables ahead of time, store them separately in airtight containers, and combine them right before serving. This method not only saves time but also keeps the vegetables fresh and crunchy when reheated. When ready to eat, simply stir-fry the veggies again for a minute before adding the noodles for even heating.

If you're planning to make it in advance, consider undercooking the noodles just a bit, as this will help retain their texture when reheated. You can also prepare a batch of the soy sauce and sesame oil mixture to add just before serving, giving your meal an instant flavor boost with minimal effort.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Vegetable Lo Mein can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to place the noodles and vegetables in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. However, be aware that the longer they sit, the more the noodles may absorb moisture and lose their initial texture. Try to consume leftovers within a day or two for the best quality.

Reheating can be done in a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of water or broth to help steam the meal and revitalize the noodles. Stir frequently until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and soggy noodles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of noodles?

Absolutely! You can use rice noodles, egg noodles, or even whole wheat spaghetti as a substitute.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes! This Vegetable Lo Mein is vegan as long as you use soy sauce instead of oyster sauce.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce for a tasty gluten-free option.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy!