Ah, lo mein! It’s one of those comforting dishes that always brings a smile to my face. There’s just something magical about those soft, slurpable noodles coated in savory sauce, mixed with vibrant veggies. I remember the first time I tried making lo mein at home—it was a chaotic kitchen adventure, but the end result was pure bliss! Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on whipping up this easy lo mein recipe whenever I want a quick meal that feels special. It’s so versatile, too! You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, and if you’re in the mood, toss in some protein for extra heartiness. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat. Get ready to impress your taste buds with a bowl of homemade goodness!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (fresh or dried, your choice—just make sure they’re cooked al dente!)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (I love using canola or peanut oil for that extra flavor)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color works; I’m a fan of red and yellow for that pop!)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh is best, but frozen will do in a pinch)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned (for a great crunch and sweetness)
- 3 green onions, chopped (these add a lovely freshness at the end)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skimp on this; it’s the flavor base!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (feel free to use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (this adds a nice depth of flavor, but you can skip it for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (for that nutty aroma that makes everything better)
How to Prepare Instructions
Cooking the Noodles
First things first, let’s get those lo mein noodles cooking! Bring a large pot of water to a boil—make sure it’s a rolling boil, so the noodles cook evenly. Add a pinch of salt to the water (this helps flavor the noodles). Once boiling, toss in the 8 oz of lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. You want them al dente, so don’t overcook! When they’re done, drain them in a colander and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps prevent them from sticking together later. Set those aside while you work on the veggies.
Stir-frying Vegetables
Now, let’s bring some life to those noodles with vibrant veggies! Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Next, toss in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrots. Stir-fry them for about 5 minutes, just until they’re tender yet still crisp. You want that beautiful crunch and color, so keep everything moving—this is where the magic happens!
Combining Ingredients
Alright, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked noodles into the pan with your sautéed veggies. Drizzle over the 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Now, toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure the noodles are evenly coated with that delicious sauce. Add the chopped green onions last and stir for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through. And just like that, you’ve got yourself a beautiful, colorful bowl of lo mein ready to enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Wondering what you’re getting in each delicious serving of this lo mein? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But isn’t it nice to know you’re enjoying a meal packed with flavor and a good dose of veggies? Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that won’t weigh you down!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Easy to customize: Toss in your choice of proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Healthy and vibrant: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s a tasty way to get your daily dose of greens.
- One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Great for meal prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the colorful veggies and tasty noodles!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your lo mein turns out absolutely perfect every time! Here are my top tips to help you achieve noodle nirvana:
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Keep an eye on your lo mein noodles as they cook. You want them al dente, so set a timer and taste them a minute or two before the package says they’re done. If they’re too soft, they can turn mushy in the final stir-fry!
- Rinse after cooking: Once your noodles are cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. This little step makes a huge difference in texture!
- Use high heat for stir-frying: When it’s time to cook those veggies, make sure your pan or wok is nice and hot. High heat helps to sear the vegetables, keeping them crisp and vibrant. You want that beautiful color and crunch!
- Keep things moving: Stir-frying is all about quick movements. Keep the veggies and noodles moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. This is where the magic of stir-frying really shines!
- Customize your sauce: Don’t hesitate to tweak the sauces to fit your taste! If you like it spicier, add a splash of chili sauce or some red pepper flakes. If you prefer a sweeter taste, a dash of hoisin sauce can do wonders!
- Prep your ingredients ahead: To make the cooking process smooth and quick, chop and measure all your ingredients before you start cooking. That way, you’re not scrambling to find things while everything’s sizzling away!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to whip up lo mein like a pro. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to taste as you go—your taste buds will thank you!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize this lo mein recipe! Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Protein Power: Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Just sauté them separately and toss them in with the noodles for a heartier meal. I love using grilled chicken for that smoky flavor!
- Veggie Wonderland: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms work beautifully. You can even throw in some baby corn or water chestnuts for that extra crunch!
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces to change the flavor profile. Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet twist, while sriracha can give it a spicy kick. You could even try a homemade ginger-soy sauce for a fresh taste!
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can elevate your lo mein to new heights. Just sprinkle some on top right before serving for a burst of flavor!
- Noodle Swap: Not a fan of lo mein noodles? No problem! You can use udon noodles, rice noodles, or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
- Seasonal Specials: Based on the season, you can incorporate seasonal vegetables. In the fall, add some butternut squash; in the summer, zucchini and corn are fantastic choices!
With these variations, you can keep your lo mein nights exciting and delicious. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds lead the way! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a delicious batch of lo mein and have some leftovers? Great choice! Storing them properly will keep that flavor intact for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Storage: Allow your lo mein to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your noodles soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep those flavors fresh!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze lo mein! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It should be good for about 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to label the containers with the date to keep track!
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, you’ll want to reheat them the right way:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, pop your lo mein in the microwave. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of soy sauce to keep things moist. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through.
- Stovetop: If you have a bit more time, I recommend reheating on the stovetop for the best texture. In a pan over medium heat, add a touch of oil or water to prevent sticking, then toss in your lo mein. Stir it well for a few minutes until it’s heated thoroughly. This method helps revive that delightful stir-fry texture!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your lo mein just as much the next day as you did when it was fresh! Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I make this lo mein recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Most rice noodles are also a great alternative if you want to change up the noodle type entirely!
What vegetables can I use instead of the ones listed?
The beauty of lo mein is its versatility! You can use any veggies you have on hand. Try adding snap peas, bok choy, or even baby spinach. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different vegetables, so adjust as needed to keep everything crisp and vibrant!
Can I use pre-cooked noodles?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked lo mein or any other type of noodles for a quicker meal. Just make sure to heat them through properly with the veggies and sauces to get that delicious flavor meld—no need to boil them again!
How do I meal prep lo mein for the week?
Meal prepping lo mein is super easy! Prepare your lo mein as directed, then cool it down before dividing it into meal prep containers. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and enjoy! You can also pack some extra veggies or protein on the side to mix in fresh.
What’s the best way to reheat lo mein without it getting dry?
To avoid dry lo mein, I recommend reheating it in a pan on the stovetop with a splash of water or a bit of oil. This keeps the noodles moist and helps revive that stir-fry texture. Stir it often until heated through, and you’ll be back to deliciousness in no time!

Lo mein recipes that will bring pure bliss to dinner
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy lo mein recipe featuring fresh vegetables and noodles.
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 5 minutes.
- Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to combine.
- Stir in green onions and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to add protein like chicken or shrimp.
- Adjust sauces to taste.
- Use fresh vegetables for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lo mein recipes, easy lo mein, vegetarian lo mein