Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 cup snap peas; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2 green onions, chopped; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp sugar

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making Vegetable Lo Mein at home because it brings together colorful vegetables and comforting noodles in a delicious and satisfying way. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors, thanks to the soy sauce and sesame oil, which infuse the dish with an umami depth. This recipe is not just quick and easy, it is also a beautiful showcase for any seasonal fresh produce you have on hand. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side, it’s a family favorite that never disappoints.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:47:35.807Z

When I first attempted to make Vegetable Lo Mein, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The vibrant colors of the vegetables sautéed in my favorite wok were nothing short of captivating. I love using a mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas, but I also recommend trying in whatever's fresh in your fridge. The key to a successful stir-fry is high heat and fast cooking, which helps keep the veggies crisp and full of flavor.

One tip I learned along the way is to always cook your noodles separately and rinse them in cold water before adding to the stir-fry. This prevents them from becoming mushy and allows the sauce to cling better. The result is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that I can't resist. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A colorful medley of fresh vegetables for a vibrant meal
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
A versatile recipe that allows for personal customization

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of Vegetable Lo Mein lies in its versatility, allowing you to use any fresh produce you have on hand. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while snap peas contribute a satisfying snap with each bite. For a richer flavor, try including mushrooms or bok choy, which also provide a depth of umami. Aim for a colorful medley to not only delight the eyes but also enhance nutritional value. Remember, seasonal vegetables often taste better and can be more economical, so feel free to experiment throughout the year.

When it comes to preparing your vegetables, uniformity in size is key for even cooking. Aim for similar thickness across julienned or sliced items, which helps them stir-fry consistently. Cook the vegetables over high heat, using a large wok or skillet; this promotes quick cooking and retains their vibrant color and crunch. If some veggies take longer to cook, add them to the pan in batches, starting with those that require more time, like carrots and broccoli.

Perfecting the Noodles

Lo mein noodles should be cooked until al dente, providing the perfect texture that holds up against the stir-fried veggies and sauce. Follow the package instructions closely, as overcooking can lead to mushy noodles that clump together. Once you drain and rinse them under cold water, make sure they're thoroughly cooled; this step prevents them from continuing to cook and losing that desired firmness. An added tip is to drizzle a small amount of oil after rinsing; it keeps the noodles from sticking and enhances their flavor.

If you’re gluten-sensitive or just looking for alternative options, rice noodles or soba noodles can be great substitutes for lo mein. However, the cooking times may vary. For instance, rice noodles typically require soaking rather than boiling, so always check the specific instructions on the package. Remember to adjust the sauce quantities slightly, as different noodles absorb flavors at different rates.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare a delicious Vegetable Lo Mein:

Vegetables and Noodles

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

Sauce

3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sugar

Make sure all ingredients are prepared and ready to cook before starting the stir-fry.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful Vegetable Lo Mein:

Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.

Prepare the Veggies

In a large wok or skillet, heat the sesame oil over high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Add the bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, keeping the veggies crisp.

Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add the cooked noodles and the soy sauce, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Enjoy your home-cooked Vegetable Lo Mein that’s fresh, flavorful, and fun!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your choice of vegetables or protein for a personalized touch. Tofu or shrimp can make a great addition.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain flavor and texture. Place any uneaten Vegetable Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend using a pan over medium heat to restore moisture and crispness, adding a splash of water or extra sesame oil if it seems dry. Microwaving is convenient but can lead to a softer texture, so use with caution.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat as mentioned before. Note that ingredients with higher water content, like bell peppers, may lose their crunch after freezing, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable Lo Mein shines on its own, but you can elevate it by pairing it with other dishes. Try serving it alongside homemade spring rolls or a light miso soup for a balanced meal. You can also add protein such as tofu, shrimp, or chicken, which can be pre-cooked and tossed in with the vegetables, enhancing the dish's heartiness. Adjust the sauce quantities accordingly to accommodate the additional ingredients.

For an enticing presentation, serve your Vegetable Lo Mein in bowls garnished with sesame seeds and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or crushed peanuts. These finishing touches add both flavor and an appealing texture contrast, making each bite even more delightful. Don’t forget to have a soy sauce dish on the side; the added touch allows everyone to customize their seasoning preferences easily.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti or other Asian noodles like chow mein.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, the recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.