Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful Studio
A quick and easy veggie fried rice recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and fragrant rice, making it a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Packed with colorful vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Versatile – customize with your favorite veggies or proteins
A Nutritional Powerhouse
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice is not just a delicious meal; it's also packed with nutrients. The colorful mix of vegetables like carrots, peas, and bell peppers adds a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining good health. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while bell peppers provide a boost of vitamin C. By including these vibrant veggies, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also creating a nutritious dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
In addition to the vegetables, the dish uses cooked rice, which serves as a great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for those busy afternoons. Whether you’re heading to work or running errands, this fried rice can keep you fueled and satisfied without weighing you down.
Customization Options
One of the best features of this Simple Veggie Fried Rice is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your personal tastes or what you have on hand. You can easily swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites, such as broccoli, zucchini, or corn. If you're looking to add some protein, consider incorporating scrambled eggs, tofu, or even leftover chicken for a heartier meal.
This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare a larger batch and divide it into portions to enjoy throughout the week. It’s a perfect go-to option for lunch or dinner, ensuring you have a healthy meal ready in no time.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Simple Veggie Fried Rice experience, consider serving it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a light salad. A tangy sesame dressing or a splash of extra soy sauce can add an exciting flavor dimension. You may also want to pair it with some crispy spring rolls or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
For those looking to make it even more filling, serve the fried rice in lettuce wraps for a fun and interactive dining experience. This not only adds a crunchy texture but also makes it a lighter option for warm days.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious fried rice:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your veggie fried rice:
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Incorporate the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Flavor the Rice
Pour the soy sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
Finish with Green Onions
Stir in the chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Your Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is ready to enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make it a more filling meal.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after making this Simple Veggie Fried Rice, you can easily store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a few drops of water or a splash of soy sauce to prevent the rice from drying out and to enhance its flavor.
For longer storage, consider freezing your fried rice. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal anytime by reheating it directly from the freezer.
Cooking Tips
To achieve the best texture in your fried rice, it’s ideal to use cold, day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clump together, while cold rice separates easily, allowing for a better stir-fry. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool before using it in the recipe.
Additionally, ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the oil. This helps to quickly sear the ingredients, locking in flavors and retaining the crunch of the vegetables. Stir-frying over high heat for short periods is key to achieving that restaurant-quality finish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rice works great and helps to prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy.
→ What vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, corn, or zucchini.
→ How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that the soy sauce you use is also vegan-friendly.
→ Can I store leftover fried rice?
Yes, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
A quick and easy veggie fried rice recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Created by: Rowena Clarke
Recipe Type: Fast & Flavorful Studio
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Pour the soy sauce over the rice and mix thoroughly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
Stir in the chopped green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make it a more filling meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g