Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch

Name: Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A quick and nutritious meal option, this Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is packed with colorful vegetables and flavors that make it a delightful choice for any time of the day.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:43:16.006Z

This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it's sure to please both kids and adults alike!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 25 minutes
Packed with fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost
Versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients

      

Health Benefits of Veggie Fried Rice

Veggie fried rice is not just a tasty meal; it is also a powerhouse of nutrients. By incorporating a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Carrots are high in vitamin A, which is vital for eye health, while peas offer a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.

Additionally, using day-old rice helps improve the texture of the dish. The cooled rice grains are firmer and less sticky, allowing for better separation during cooking. This not only enhances the overall mouthfeel of the fried rice but also ensures that each grain absorbs the flavors of the vegetables and sauces beautifully.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

One of the best aspects of veggie fried rice is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you enjoy protein, consider adding scrambled eggs, tofu, or cooked chicken for a heartier meal. Alternatively, keep it vegan by sticking to the veggies and soy sauce.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables too! Broccoli, corn, or even spinach can be excellent additions. The key is to ensure that whatever vegetables you choose are chopped into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This not only adds variety in flavor and texture but also makes your dish visually appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Simple Veggie Fried Rice can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with other dishes. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or a side of hot and sour soup to create a more substantial meal. The contrast of flavors and textures elevates the overall dining experience.

For a touch of gourmet flair, garnish your fried rice with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick. These small additions can transform a simple dish into a restaurant-quality meal, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use leftover rice for the best texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure that the rice is cooked and cooled.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Mixed Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, or until they are tender.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan, along with the soy sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious veggie fried rice!

This dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your veggie fried rice, storing them properly is essential to maintain their taste and quality. Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the flavors. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve restaurant-quality fried rice, ensure that your rice is cooked and cooled properly before using it. Day-old rice works best because it has dried out slightly, preventing clumping and allowing for better frying. If you don't have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly.

Another tip is to work in batches if you're making a large quantity. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than frying, resulting in soggy rice. By cooking in smaller portions, you'll achieve that perfect fried rice texture everyone loves.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great for this recipe and save time on prep.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that you use a vegan soy sauce and omit any animal products.

→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old rice or jasmine rice is ideal for fried rice as it helps achieve the desired texture.