Vegetable Lo Mein

Name: Vegetable Lo Mein
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup snap peas; 3 green onions, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Collection

I love making Vegetable Lo Mein at home because it’s not only quick, but it’s also packed with vibrant flavors and colorful vegetables. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights when I want something hearty yet healthy on the table in just 30 minutes. Every bite is a perfect harmony of soft noodles and stir-fried veggies, making it a delightful meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, I love that I can customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what I have on hand!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:57:36.390Z

When I first attempted to make Vegetable Lo Mein, I was amazed at how easily everything came together. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped beforehand, as everything cooks quickly in the wok. I also discovered that using a mix of soy sauce and oyster sauce really enhances the umami flavor of the dish, making it taste like something from a restaurant!

One tip that changed my lo mein experience was adding the vegetables in stages. I prefer a slight crunch, so I add the heartier vegetables like bell peppers earlier and the greens at the end. This method not only helps with cooking times but also brings out the best textures and flavors. You’re going to love how colorful it is on your table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant mix of fresh vegetables that provides crunch and nutrition
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Flavorful stir-fried noodles that are customizable to your taste

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the great things about Vegetable Lo Mein is its versatility; you can play with different veggies based on what's in season or what you have at home. For a crunchy texture, I love adding water chestnuts or bell peppers. If you're looking for a bit more depth, think about unloading some mushrooms or tossing in baby corn. Just remember that the cooking time for each vegetable can vary slightly, so aim for a colorful mix to not only enhance flavors but also ensure a delightful crunch in each bite.

Color is essential in this dish—not just for aesthetics, but for nutrition too! Vegetables like carrots and broccoli not only add a rainbow of hues but also deliver a variety of vitamins. If you want to boost the dish further, consider adding leafy greens like bok choy or spinach in the final moments of cooking; they wilt quickly and infuse the dish with extra nutrients.

Perfecting Your Noodle Technique

To achieve the best texture for your lo mein noodles, make sure to cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the pan when you toss them with the vegetables and sauce. If you're using spaghetti, keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking since they can turn mushy quickly. Once drained, I like to give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and help keep them separate when stir-frying.

When it comes to tossing the noodles with the vegetables, use high heat and a large wok or frying pan to allow for ample space. This ensures even cooking and prevents the noodles from clumping together. My tip: keep stirring continuously to create that beautiful glossy finish from the sauce while ensuring every strand gets coated evenly. You may want to add a splash of water if things start to stick.

Customizing and Storing Your Lo Mein

This Vegetable Lo Mein can easily be tailored to fit dietary restrictions or personal preferences. If you're gluten-free, substitute lo mein noodles with rice noodles or a gluten-free pasta option. For a vegan version, ensure that your oyster sauce is plant-based or swap it with a mushroom sauce to enhance the umami flavor without animal products. Adjust the soy sauce amount based on dietary needs—it can easily be reduced or replaced with a low-sodium alternative.

After preparing this dish, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. This makes it not only a time-efficient meal but a perfect make-ahead option that retains its delicious flavor and textures, ready for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Vegetable Lo Mein to ensure a delicious, colorful dish:

Ingredients

8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
3 green onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Feel free to experiment with your choice of vegetables or add tofu for extra protein!

Instructions

Here’s how to create a delicious Vegetable Lo Mein in just a few simple steps:

Cook the Noodles

Boil a pot of water and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In a large wok or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and carrots, stirring for about 3 minutes until slightly softened.

Add Broccoli and Snap Peas

Stir in the broccoli and snap peas, cooking for another 3 minutes until everything is vibrant and tender-crisp.

Mix the Noodles

Add the cooked noodles to the wok along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well coated.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and top with chopped green onions before serving.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Vegetable Lo Mein!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated ginger or sesame seeds as a finishing touch. You can also spice it up with a dash of chili sauce if you like a kick.

Flavor Enhancements

For those looking to elevate the flavor profile of their Vegetable Lo Mein, consider adding a dash of chili oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes just before serving to impart a slight kick. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness, chop some baby corn or use a teaspoon of hoisin sauce to round out the savory flavors. I also like adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving for an uplifting brightness that complements the richness of the noodles.

Another layer of flavor can be achieved by toasting sesame seeds and sprinkling them over your dish before serving. Not only do they add a delightful crunch, but the nutty flavor enhances the overall taste of the Vegetable Lo Mein, making it a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Cooking for a Crowd

If you're cooking for multiple people, don't hesitate to double the ingredients. Just ensure that you have a large enough wok or pan to facilitate even cooking. A good rule of thumb for scaling up is to increase the cooking time for the vegetables slightly but keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Stir-frying in batches can also help, as overcrowding the pan may lead to steaming instead of achieving that desired stir-fried texture.

For a festive gathering, consider creating a noodle bar where guests can customize their own dishes. Provide an array of cooked proteins, extra veggies, and sauces for more interactive fun. This way, everyone can enjoy their own version of the Vegetable Lo Mein, making it a memorable and shared dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute lo mein noodles with any long pasta like spaghetti or udon noodles.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and soy sauce alternatives like tamari.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply omit the oyster sauce or substitute it with a vegan version or additional soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and cook the noodles ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and stir-fry them just before serving.