Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
A quick and delicious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner, packed with colorful vegetables and fragrant rice.
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is a staple in many households. It's not only quick to make but also a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables
- Healthy and satisfying for any meal
A Versatile Meal Option
Veggie fried rice is an incredibly versatile dish that allows you to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Whether it's a few extra bell peppers, a handful of broccoli, or some wilted spinach, almost any vegetable can find a home in this recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you're looking to clean out your pantry.
This meal is not only quick to prepare but also provides an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to a variety of vegetables without overwhelming them, as the flavors meld beautifully together.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal prep, this simple veggie fried rice recipe should be at the top of your list. It keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. Simply prepare a larger quantity, portion it out into individual containers, and you’ll have a quick, healthy meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.
Additionally, reheating fried rice is a breeze. Simply pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water to restore its original texture. This makes it a convenient option for lunches at work or quick dinners on busy evenings.
Nutritional Benefits
This veggie fried rice is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. By using a variety of colorful vegetables, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the meal's vitamin and mineral content. Carrots and peas are high in fiber and essential nutrients, which can contribute to better digestion and overall health.
Moreover, when paired with brown rice or another whole grain, this dish can provide a hearty dose of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day. With the addition of healthy fats from sesame oil and protein from the soy sauce, this meal becomes a well-rounded option that satisfies your hunger and supports your nutritional goals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and ensure the rice is cooked and cooled.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Season the Rice
Pour in the soy sauce and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch!
Cooking Tips
When making veggie fried rice, using day-old rice is often recommended. This is because freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky, making it harder to achieve that perfect fry. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool it down quickly before using it in your dish.
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your fried rice. These small additions can elevate the overall taste and add a delightful kick that balances out the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This simple veggie fried rice is delicious on its own, but you can easily elevate your meal by serving it with a side of protein. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can complement the flavors beautifully, making it a more filling option. Additionally, serving it with a fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm rice.
For an authentic Asian twist, consider pairing your fried rice with some homemade spring rolls or dumplings. These side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience and make for a fun, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Storing Leftovers
To store any leftovers, make sure to let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a convenient option for meal planning and quick lunches.
If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it. Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly for this recipe and save prep time.
→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Day-old rice or jasmine rice is ideal for fried rice as it holds its shape better.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some chili sauce or red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetables and rice.
Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
A quick and delicious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner, packed with colorful vegetables and fragrant rice.
Created by: Autumn Pierce
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather all your ingredients and ensure the rice is cooked and cooled.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the soy sauce and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 8g