Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups lo mein noodles; 1 cup bell peppers, julienned; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 1 carrot, sliced thinly; 2 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

Highlighted under: International Delights

I’ve always adored the comforting flavors of Asian cuisine, and this Vegetable Lo Mein truly embodies everything I love about it. As I stir-fry the colorful vegetables and boil the noodles, I can already envision the delightful mix of textures and tastes to come. This dish is not only quick to whip up but also allows for endless customization. It's the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when I crave something satisfying and nutritious, and it transports me straight to my favorite takeout spot!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:29:36.321Z

When I first tried to recreate my favorite takeout dish at home, I was surprised by how simple it was. I found that using fresh vegetables not only enhanced the flavor but also added a vibrant crunch that was simply irresistible. By tossing everything quickly in a hot wok, I preserved the crispness of the veggies while infusing them with a savory sauce.

One essential tip I learned is to combine soy sauce with a splash of sesame oil—this unique blend elevates the dish beautifully. I've also discovered that adding a bit of cooked tofu or your favorite protein makes this dish even heartier!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant medley of fresh vegetables that burst with flavor
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite proteins for added heartiness

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking, which is why it’s essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start. I recommend using a wok for this recipe, as its shape allows for even heat distribution and easy tossing of ingredients. Keep the heat at medium-high to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture in the vegetables; watch for them to change color and glisten slightly as they cook to avoid overdoing it.

Another technique to elevate your stir-fry is to add the vegetables in stages based on their cooking times. Start with the heartier vegetables like carrots and broccoli, which take longer to cook. After a minute or two, add the bell peppers and snap peas for the perfect blend of textures. This staggered cooking allows each vegetable to maintain its distinct crunch and bright color, ensuring your Vegetable Lo Mein is visually appealing and delicious.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This Vegetable Lo Mein is endlessly customizable, which is one of the reasons I love it. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or gluten-free soy sauce. For those who prefer protein in their dish, tofu, chicken, or shrimp can easily be added; just remember to cook the protein separately before adding it to the stir-fry to ensure it's properly cooked through.

If seasonal vegetables are a concern, feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even bok choy work wonderfully in this dish. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid mushy veggies. The key is to keep a vibrant color in the pan – if you notice the vegetables losing their brightness, it’s time to take them off the heat!

Make-Ahead Tips and Serving Suggestions

Preparing your Vegetable Lo Mein ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your weeknight dinners. The noodles can be cooked and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give them a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Vegetables can also be chopped beforehand, making it easy to whip up this dish when you're short on time.

When it comes to serving, I love to pair this dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed red pepper for added texture and flavor. You can also serve it alongside homemade spring rolls or a fresh salad for a more substantial meal. If you're feeling adventurous, try drizzling a bit of sriracha for a spicy kick that complements the soy sauce beautifully!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a colorful Vegetable Lo Mein that packs a flavor punch!

Vegetables

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

Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

These simple yet nutritious ingredients come together for a satisfying meal!

Instructions

Let’s start cooking this delicious Vegetable Lo Mein!

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large wok or pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds before adding the bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine with Sauce

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together. Quickly add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Vegetable Lo Mein!

This colorful dish will surely satisfy your cravings!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. You can also add cooked shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.

The Importance of Noodle Texture

The texture of the lo mein noodles plays a crucial role in the overall eating experience. Cooking them to al dente gives you that satisfying chew, which contrasts nicely with the crunchy vegetables. If you accidentally overcook the noodles, they can become mushy and may not hold the sauce well. Make sure to follow the package instructions closely and remember they will continue to cook slightly after draining.

If you don't have lo mein noodles on hand, you can substitute with spaghetti or fettuccine, but be mindful that the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Just ensure you cook them until they are nice and firm – a bit of bite goes a long way!

Tips for Thicker Sauce

The cornstarch mixture is an essential element for achieving that glossy and slightly thickened sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles and veggies. Ensure to mix the cornstarch thoroughly with water to avoid lumps. Add it to the stir-fry in the last couple of minutes of cooking; this is when the magic happens, transforming your dish into a luxurious, cohesive experience.

If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can whisk in some chili paste or increase the amount of ginger for an extra kick. Just be sure to keep the overall balance of flavors in mind – you want your Vegetable Lo Mein to be savory and enticing without overwhelming your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with udon or even spaghetti in a pinch.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat.

→ Can I freeze Vegetable Lo Mein?

While it's best fresh, you can freeze the dish. Just ensure the sauce isn't overly thick before freezing.