Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 thumb-sized piece ginger, grated; 1 cup bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 3 green onions, chopped; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Home Cooking

I love making Vegetable Lo Mein because it’s a quick and vibrant meal that bursts with flavor and color. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a delightful dish that's packed with fresh vegetables and savory noodles. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can easily substitute your favorite veggies or even add protein. I appreciate how the soy sauce ties everything together, creating a comforting umami taste that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:03:35.700Z

When I first made Vegetable Lo Mein, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare. I thought it would be a complicated dish, but with a hot wok and some basic veggies, I was able to create something delicious in no time. Using fresh garlic and ginger added a depth of flavor that elevated the dish.

One tip I learned is to cook the noodles slightly less than the package instructions suggest; this way, they absorb the sauce better and retain their perfect texture. The resulting lo mein is nourishing and satisfying, perfect for a busy weeknight or casual gathering.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful and crunchy veggies for a fresh taste
Quick cooking time perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile—customize with your favorite ingredients

Ingredient Insights

Each vegetable in this Vegetable Lo Mein contributes unique textures and flavors that elevate the dish. For instance, the bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while broccoli brings a hearty earthiness. Choose vegetables that are in season to enhance both taste and color. If you find yourself without snap peas, feel free to substitute with green beans or bok choy, both of which will bring a delightful crunch to the dish.

Soy sauce is fundamental in this recipe, as it imparts a rich umami flavor that binds all the ingredients together. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce is a mindful way to manage salt content without sacrificing taste. Additionally, the sesame oil adds a nutty depth that rounds off the flavors beautifully, so don’t skip it! If you're avoiding gluten, tamari is an excellent alternative.

Cooking Techniques

Perfect stir-frying is the key to achieving that restaurant-quality texture in your Vegetable Lo Mein. Make sure your wok is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the oil; this helps prevent sticking and ensures your vegetables sear correctly, developing a lovely brightness and slight char. Stir-fry the vegetables swiftly, until they're tender-crisp, usually about 5-7 minutes, to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients.

Remember, the timing is crucial when combining the noodles with the sautéed vegetables. You want to add the lo mein noodles just as the vegetables finish cooking to prevent them from clumping or overcooking. This quick toss in the wok, lasting only 2-3 minutes, allows for the noodles to absorb the flavors from the soy and sesame oils without becoming mushy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Vegetable Lo Mein

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

Ensure everything is prepped and ready for a swift cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Vegetable Lo Mein:

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Stir-fry the Vegetables

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Finish Up

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Vegetable Lo Mein!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or add tofu for extra protein. To add a bit of heat, consider including some chili flakes or Sriracha.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to enjoy the wonderful flavors of Vegetable Lo Mein later, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. You can chop the vegetables a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The noodles can also be cooked in advance; just be sure to rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking until you’re ready to stir-fry.

When storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, add the leftover lo mein to a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or additional soy sauce for moisture. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring that you don’t overcook the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable Lo Mein can stand alone as a meal, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside crispy spring rolls or dumplings for a complete feast. A side of sweet and sour sauce can add a fun twist, enhancing the flavor profile with a tangy contrast.

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. If you wish to keep it vegetarian, tempeh is an excellent choice, providing a hearty texture that complements the vegetables. Simply sauté the protein of your choice separately, then mix it in with the noodles and vegetables during the final toss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with udon or rice noodles.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and make sure the noodles are also gluten-free.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of Sriracha for some heat.

→ Can I make Vegetable Lo Mein ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all ingredients in advance and quickly stir-fry them just before serving.