Lo Mein with Fresh Veggies
Lo Mein with Fresh Veggies is a quick, colorful, and nutritious dish combining tender noodles, crunchy fresh vegetables, and a savory, umami-rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers vibrant textures and flavors in a wholesome, customizable one-pan meal.
- Author: Lucas
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian (optionally vegan), Gluten Free (if using gluten-free noodles and soy sauce)
Noodles and Base
- Lo Mein noodles – 8 oz (about 225 g)
- Sesame oil – 2 teaspoons
Vegetables
- Bell peppers, sliced – 1 cup (any color)
- Carrots, julienned or sliced – 1 cup
- Snow peas – 1 cup, trimmed
- Green onions, chopped – 2 stalks
Aromatics
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Fresh ginger, minced – 1 teaspoon
Sauce
- Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons (use vegan-friendly soy sauce if desired)
- Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
- Optional: pinch of sugar and freshly ground pepper to taste
Optional Protein
- Tofu – 6 oz, cubed
- Or chicken breast – 6 oz, thinly sliced
- Or shrimp – 6 oz, peeled and deveined
- Prepare the noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until tender but still chewy. Drain and toss with a little sesame oil to keep them from sticking. Set aside.
- Sauté aromatics and veggies: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas, stir-frying until they start to soften but remain crisp.
- Add optional protein: If using, cook tofu, chicken, or shrimp separately until cooked through, then add to the skillet to combine with the veggies.
- Combine noodles with veggies and protein: Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet, mixing well to combine and warm everything through. Ensure the noodles and veggies blend well to give every bite both texture and taste.
- Add the sauce: Pour in soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and optional sugar and pepper. Stir thoroughly so each noodle and vegetable strand is coated in the savory sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top and serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh vegetables to maximize texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook noodles; they should stay tender but chewy.
- Cook on high heat to preserve veggie crunch.
- Prep all ingredients beforehand for quick stir-frying.
- Adjust soy sauce and seasonings gradually to balance the savory taste.
- Make the sauce ahead to let flavors meld better.
- Protein can be cooked separately and added near the end to keep flavors balanced.
- Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge.
- Reheat gently in skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: lo mein, fresh veggies, vegetarian, quick dinner, stir-fry, healthy, easy recipe, gluten-free option, vegan option