Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch

Name: Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Collection

Enjoy a quick and healthy lunch with this Simple Veggie Fried Rice recipe, packed with colorful vegetables and flavors that will brighten your day.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:42:36.353Z

This Simple Veggie Fried Rice is a delightful way to use up leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand. It's quick, nutritious, and utterly satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy lunch.
Packed with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost.
Versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste.

      

The Benefits of Using Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice in your fried rice dish is a game-changer. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky, which can lead to clumping when stir-frying. Day-old rice, on the other hand, has dried out slightly in the refrigerator, allowing each grain to stay separate. This results in a fluffy and well-mixed fried rice that is much more enjoyable to eat. If you don’t have day-old rice on hand, simply spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes before using it in this recipe.

Moreover, using day-old rice not only enhances the texture but also simplifies your meal prep. Cooking rice in bulk and storing it for later use can save you considerable time during busy weekdays. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners.

Customizing Your Veggie Fried Rice

One of the best aspects of veggie fried rice is its versatility. You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have in your fridge or your personal taste preferences. Feel free to add in other vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or even corn. If you enjoy a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables before they go bad.

Additionally, you can enhance the flavor profile by experimenting with different sauces. While soy sauce is a classic choice, you might also consider adding teriyaki sauce, oyster sauce, or even a splash of sriracha to elevate the taste. For those who prefer a protein boost, tofu or scrambled eggs can be added to make this dish heartier. This adaptability makes Simple Veggie Fried Rice a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Simple Veggie Fried Rice is not only delicious on its own but also pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside your favorite Asian-inspired proteins, such as grilled chicken, beef stir-fry, or even baked salmon. The combination of flavors will create a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. You can also serve it with a light soup, such as miso or wonton soup, to complete your lunch.

For a more casual dining experience, serve the fried rice in bowls topped with additional green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing presentation. You can also offer soy sauce or chili oil on the side for those who like to add a little extra flavor to their plate. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this Simple Veggie Fried Rice is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Vegetable Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite protein such as tofu or chicken for a heartier meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables. If using day-old rice, ensure it’s broken up to avoid clumps.

Cook the Veggies

In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.

Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for another 5 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Enjoy your Simple Veggie Fried Rice as is or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, storing your veggie fried rice is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.

For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This way, you’ll always have a quick meal option ready for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn't feasible.

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Veggie Fried Rice is packed with nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for lunch. The mixed vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from carrots and vitamin C from bell peppers. Incorporating a variety of colors in your vegetables not only makes the dish visually appealing but also ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients necessary for overall health.

Additionally, rice is a great source of carbohydrates, offering energy to get you through the day. When made with brown rice, this dish can also provide fiber, which is essential for digestive health. The healthy fats from sesame oil contribute to heart health while adding a delightful flavor. Overall, this recipe is a delicious way to nourish your body while enjoying a quick meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, day-old rice works best as it’s less sticky and fries up nicely.

→ What vegetables can I use?

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, corn, or zucchini.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use a vegan soy sauce.

→ How can I add protein to this dish?

You can add tofu, cooked chicken, or shrimp to make it more filling.