Easy Veggie Lo Mein Recipe: A Flavorful and Healthy Meal
Lo mein, a beloved Chinese noodle dish, is typically packed with protein and savory flavors. This recipe offers a lighter, vegetarian twist without compromising on taste. This easy veggie lo mein recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. It’s also easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables and dietary needs. Let's dive into this delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 2-3 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- Noodles: 8 oz dried lo mein noodles (or other egg noodles)
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (vegetarian oyster sauce available)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or honey for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for beginner cooks!
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the lo mein noodles according to package directions. Drain well and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside. Tip: Slightly undercook the noodles as they will continue to cook in the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable or sesame) in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the snow peas and mushrooms (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, sugar, ginger, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to coat.
- Add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss gently to combine everything.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the noodles are heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch.
Tips for the Best Veggie Lo Mein:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Aim for tender-crisp vegetables to retain their texture and nutrients.
- Adjust the sauce to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your taste preferences. A dash of chili garlic sauce adds a nice kick!
- Get creative with vegetables: Substitute your favorite vegetables, like zucchini, bok choy, or bean sprouts.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add tofu, edamame, or cooked shrimp.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The noodles might slightly soften upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.
This veggie lo mein recipe is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious meal that's both easy to make and satisfying to eat. Enjoy!