Before diving into the delightful world of vegetable fried noodles, let’s chat about what you can pair them with. These noodles are incredibly versatile, shining brightly as a main course but equally charming alongside various dishes.
You might want to complement this meal with crispy spring rolls. The contrast between the chewy noodles and a crunchy spring roll is simply unbeatable. A light soy sauce dip for those rolls adds another layer of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken or shrimp. This protein option provides a satisfying punch, balancing the noodles while keeping the dish quick and approachable.
Want to keep it plant-based? Try pairing the noodles with a simple green salad tossed in sesame dressing. The light, refreshing salad cuts through the noodle’s savory flavors, creating a delightful culinary experience.
Now that you have some pairing options in mind, let’s get cooking!
When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, vegetable fried noodles are a hero. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is one of my go-to solutions for busy days. Picture vibrant veggies tossed with chewy noodles, all coated in a flavorful sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes my kitchen smell delightful.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I spend a lot of time creating wholesome meals that don’t take forever to prepare. This dish ticks all the boxes on my busy weeknight checklist—healthy, delicious, and quick. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Don’t you love finding ways to reduce waste while cooking?
In this post, I’ll dive deeper into what vegetable fried noodles are, how to make them, their flavor profile, and more. So, grab your spatula, and let’s jump in together!
Vegetable fried noodles are a stir-fry dish featuring your favorite vegetables and noodles, all tossed together with a savory sauce. What sets this meal apart, though, is how you can personalize it. It's an open canvas, ready for your touch—whether it’s adjusting the sauce, swapping out veggies, or even including some protein.
In just 20 minutes, you can have a steaming plate of vibrant and nutritious food in front of you. Have you ever found yourself hungry after a long day? This dish is like a culinary embrace, ready to satisfy without the fuss.
Every bite of vegetable fried noodles is a balance of flavors. The umami from soy sauce meets a hint of sweetness from the maple syrup or honey. Fresh ginger and garlic add warmth and depth, creating a sensational experience that dances on your palate. Imagine that savory goodness enveloping chewy noodles while crisp vegetables provide a satisfying crunch.
For those craving a little more kick, a drizzle of chili oil adds fire and flair. The beauty lies in the flavor harmony—you’ll want to go back for more!
Quick & Easy: As busy individuals, we often crave expedience in meal prep. This recipe delivers in just 20 minutes.
Customizable: The flexibility allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Leftover veggies are welcome!
Healthful & Filling: Incorporating a colorful array of vegetables boosts fiber and nutrients. You won’t miss the extra calories.
Vegan-Friendly: It caters to various dietary preferences. Even your non-vegan friends will enjoy this dish without compromise.
Delicious Leftovers: Made too much? No worries! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunch the next day.
Ready to get to the fun part? Let’s gather the ingredients!
4 cups assorted vegetables, shredded or chopped (choose from carrots, bell peppers, bok choy, sugar snap peas, broccoli, or zucchini)
12-16 ounces stir-fry noodles (or spaghetti; rice noodles work well too)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil (for a nutty addition)
Crushed roasted peanuts and lime wedges, optional (for garnishing)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
½ cup pure maple syrup (or honey for a slight variation)
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1-2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy note)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken sauce)
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have everything ready to go. Chop your vegetables and cook your noodles according to package instructions. You want them firm since they will be stir-fried later.
In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, maple syrup (or honey), grated ginger, minced garlic, and rice vinegar. If you want a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornstarch until well blended. This sauce will bring everything together beautifully.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the toasted sesame oil over medium-high heat. This is your chance to get that nutty aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Once the oil is hot, toss in your vegetables. Stir-fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they're vibrant and just tender. Remember, you want a bit of crunch.
Next, introduce the noodles to the mix. Gently toss everything together, allowing the noodles to soak up some of that delicious oil.
Now it’s time for the magic! Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the noodles and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the sauce thickens and brings the whole dish together.
When everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to serve. If you’re feeling extra fancy, garnish with crushed peanuts and lime wedges for an extra flavor boost.
Veggie Variety: Mix and match your veggies for different flavors and colors. The fresher, the better!
Al Dente Noodles: Make sure to cook your noodles just shy of complete. They’ll finish cooking in the pan.
Sauce Storing: If you don't use all of your sauce, store it in the refrigerator for the next time! It keeps well for about a week.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like a bit of heat.
Leftover Remix: Turn your leftover noodles into a cold salad by adding a splash of soy sauce, some lime juice, and fresh herbs. It’s a different take worth trying!
Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: 10-15 grams, depending on noodle choice and any added proteins
Carbohydrates: 60 grams
Fat: 10-15 grams, mainly from sesame oil and peanuts
Fiber: 6-8 grams, courtesy of the veggies
This dish offers a balanced nutrition profile, making it a great option for busy individuals who need wholesome meals.
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce to help retain moisture.
Sometimes life gets busy, and ingredients get missed. Here are three alternatives if you can't find what you need:
Noodles: If you run out of stir-fry noodles, spaghetti or rice noodles work wonderfully. They absorb flavors well and keep a pleasant texture.
Vegetables: You don’t have bok choy? No problem! Spinach, or kale can be excellent substitutes. They cook quickly, adding nutrients to your dish.
Sauce Sweetener: No maple syrup or honey on hand? Try using agave syrup or even brown sugar; both will balance the salty soy sauce beautifully.
In just 20 minutes, you've created a delightful plate of vegetable fried noodles. The vibrant colors, balance of flavors, and incredible aroma will leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is not only a reflection of my culinary journey but also of my commitment to easy, healthy meals.
As you step into your kitchen to recreate this dish, remember the joy of cooking. It’s a chance to explore, experiment, and embrace creativity. Whether you dine solo or share with friends, there's a unique satisfaction in crafting your meal.
May this recipe empower you to find joy in the kitchen while also nourishing your body. Happy cooking!
When it comes to quick weeknight dinners, vegetable fried noodles are a hero. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is one of my go-to solutions for busy days. Picture vibrant veggies tossed with chewy noodles, all coated in a flavorful sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes my kitchen smell delightful.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I spend a lot of time creating wholesome meals that don’t take forever to prepare. This dish ticks all the boxes on my busy weeknight checklist—healthy, delicious, and quick. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers. Don’t you love finding ways to reduce waste while cooking?
In this post, I’ll dive deeper into what vegetable fried noodles are, how to make them, their flavor profile, and more. So, grab your spatula, and let’s jump in together!
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Veggie Variety: Mix and match your veggies for different flavors and colors. The fresher, the better!
Al Dente Noodles: Make sure to cook your noodles just shy of complete. They’ll finish cooking in the pan.
Sauce Storing: If you don't use all of your sauce, store it in the refrigerator for the next time! It keeps well for about a week.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like a bit of heat.
Leftover Remix: Turn your leftover noodles into a cold salad by adding a splash of soy sauce, some lime juice, and fresh herbs. It’s a different take worth trying!
Iris Miller is a registered dietitian and the creator of Friendsgiving Food Ideas, a blog dedicated to festive, accessible recipes that bring people together. Based in Colorado, Iris combines her passion for nutrition and love of celebrations to create crowd-pleasing dishes for holidays and special occasions. Her goal is to make hosting easy, fun, and inclusive for all dietary needs.