Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal perfect for busy days.
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a great way to use leftover rice and vegetables!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make in 25 minutes
- Packed with colorful veggies for a nutrient boost
- A versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite ingredients
A Quick and Nourishing Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can be challenging. This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch provides a fantastic solution. Not only does it come together in just 25 minutes, but it also offers a delicious way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy a homemade meal that is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for lunch or dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using leftover rice makes this dish not only quick to prepare but also an excellent option for reducing food waste. You can easily modify the recipe to include whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a truly versatile dish. Whether you have a few extra bell peppers, some broccoli, or even zucchini, this fried rice is an excellent vehicle for your favorite veggies.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the most appealing aspects of this Simple Veggie Fried Rice is its adaptability. If you're a fan of specific flavors, you can easily add proteins such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp to enhance the dish further. This makes it suitable for various dietary preferences and restrictions. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different sauces or seasonings, such as teriyaki sauce or chili paste, to create a flavor profile that excites your taste buds.
For those looking to boost the nutritional content even further, consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale. These greens wilt beautifully into the fried rice, providing extra vitamins and minerals without altering the overall flavor. Each time you make this dish, you're given the freedom to explore new ingredients and combinations, ensuring that you never get bored!
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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add proteins like tofu or chicken to enhance the dish!
Instructions
Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Sauté Vegetables
Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
Add Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Season
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and colorful veggie fried rice!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is key to enjoying this dish later. Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted moisture buildup. Stored this way in the refrigerator, it should last for up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option for the week.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can use the microwave for a quick option. If the rice seems a bit dry, adding a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating can help restore its original texture.
Nutritional Benefits
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice is not only a delightful meal to savor, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The variety of vegetables included—such as carrots and peas—are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting your immune system and promoting healthy skin. Brown rice, if used, offers whole grains that provide sustained energy and fiber, contributing to digestive health.
Moreover, the addition of sesame oil not only enhances the flavor but also introduces healthy fats into the dish. These fats can help with nutrient absorption and offer anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, this dish is a well-rounded choice that helps you feel satisfied while nourishing your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the skillet.
→ How can I make this dish vegan?
This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free if needed.
→ What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked tofu, shrimp, chicken, or even scrambled eggs for extra protein.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
This Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch is a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal perfect for busy days.
Created by: Chelsea Payne
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g