Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and delicious Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles recipe. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender noodles, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. With its savory sauce and versatile ingredients, it's a family favorite that can be customized to your taste.
This Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for any day of the week!
A Quick and Satisfying Meal
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles recipe addresses that need perfectly. The dish is not only quick to prepare, but it also delivers a satisfying taste experience that can rival takeout. With just a bit of chopping and some steaming, you can have a homemade meal on the table in about 20 minutes.
The versatility of lo mein noodles means that you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, you can enjoy this meal by adding your favorite proteins, such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The vibrant colors and flavors of the mixed vegetables elevate the dish, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Health Benefits of Homemade Lo Mein
Making lo mein at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal without the excessive sodium and preservatives often found in takeout options. The mixed vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for a balanced diet. By incorporating a variety of veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli, you’re boosting the nutritional value of the dish.
Additionally, by using whole grain or gluten-free lo mein noodles, you can cater to specific dietary needs while still enjoying this delightful dish. The healthy fats from sesame oil can also be beneficial, as they help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables, rendering this meal not just a treat for your taste buds but also an asset to your health.
Customizing Your Lo Mein
One of the best aspects of this Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand or your favorites. Zucchini, snap peas, or even bok choy can be great additions. The savory soy sauce can be adjusted based on your taste; try adding a splash of oyster sauce or chili flakes for an extra kick.
Another fun variation is to experiment with different proteins. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu can transform the dish into a protein-packed meal. If you're looking to add some crunch, consider topping your noodles with crunchy peanuts or sliced almonds for added texture and flavor. The options are limitless, making each time you prepare this recipe a unique culinary experience.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Make sure to prepare everything before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.
Cooking Steps
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Lo Mein noodles:
Cook the Noodles
Boil the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Then add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Combine with Sauce
Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and green onions to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Serve
Plate the noodles and garnish with sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!
Serve immediately for the best taste. Enjoy your Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the noodles to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers and consume them within 2-3 days for the best taste and quality.
When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating can be done quickly on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to help steam the noodles, keeping them moist. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Pairing Suggestions
To enhance your Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles meal, consider pairing it with a light appetizer or salad. A simple cucumber salad dressed with soy sauce and sesame oil complements the dish wonderfully, adding freshness and crunch. Alternatively, egg rolls or spring rolls make for a tasty side that fits perfectly within the Asian theme.
For drinks, a refreshing green tea or a light Asian beer works beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, coconut water or sparkling water with a splash of lime can cleanse the palate and hydrate. These pairings elevate the dining experience, making it feel more like a night out than a weeknight dinner.
Tips for Perfecting Your Lo Mein
To achieve the best flavor profile in your Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles, it’s important to not overcook the vegetables. You want them to retain a bit of their crunch to provide texture against the soft noodles. Stir-frying over medium heat ensures that they are cooked through while still vibrant in color, enhancing the dish's visual appeal.
Additionally, when tossing the noodles with the sauce, do it gently to avoid breaking the noodles. A non-stick pan can be helpful for this step, ensuring everything mixes well without sticking. Lastly, letting the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld, creating a more flavorful and cohesive dish. These simple tips can elevate your lo mein experience significantly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different noodles?
Yes, you can substitute with other types of noodles, such as spaghetti or rice noodles.
→ Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. You can add tofu or other proteins if desired.
Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and delicious Easy 20-min. Lo Mein Noodles recipe. Packed with vibrant vegetables and tender noodles, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. With its savory sauce and versatile ingredients, it's a family favorite that can be customized to your taste.
Created by: Morgan Reeves
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
How-To Steps
Boil the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for 30 seconds. Then add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and green onions to the pan. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Plate the noodles and garnish with sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 10g