Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch

Highlighted under: Home Quick Meals Ideas

Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal with this simple veggie fried rice recipe, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Tabitha Collins

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-03T01:45:36.727Z

This simple veggie fried rice is a delightful dish that combines colorful vegetables with fluffy rice. It's a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 25 minutes
  • Versatile with any veggies you have on hand
  • Deliciously savory with a hint of soy sauce
  • Great for meal prepping or a busy weeknight dinner

Quick and Nutritious Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. This Simple Veggie Fried Rice recipe is designed to be both quick and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also fuels your body with essential nutrients.

Packed with colorful vegetables and protein, this dish is a smart way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. The combination of rice and mixed veggies provides a balanced meal that is both filling and flavorful. Plus, using day-old rice not only enhances the texture but also makes the dish easier to prepare.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this veggie fried rice is its versatility. You can easily swap in any vegetables you have on hand, whether it's broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas. This adaptability makes it perfect for using up leftovers from your fridge, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

Not only can you customize the vegetables, but you can also adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick, or toss in some cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your meal rotation.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking for a meal prep solution, this Simple Veggie Fried Rice is a fantastic option. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. Simply store it in airtight containers in the fridge, and reheat when you're ready to eat.

Not only does meal prepping save you time, but it can also help you stick to your health goals. By preparing meals in advance, you reduce the temptation to reach for unhealthy fast food options when you're busy. This veggie fried rice is a delicious way to stay on track while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious veggie fried rice.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 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
  • Optional: 1 egg, beaten

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your veggie fried rice.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.

Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.

Season the Rice

Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir to evenly coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the Green Onions

Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Optional: Scramble an Egg

If using, push the rice to one side of the skillet, pour the beaten egg on the other side, and scramble until fully cooked. Mix into the rice.

Your simple veggie fried rice is now ready to be served!

Tips for the Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve the best texture for your fried rice, it's recommended to use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be clumpy, while chilled rice separates easily, resulting in a better bite. If you don’t have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before using.

When cooking the vegetables, aim for a high heat to ensure they remain crisp and vibrant. Overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables, which detracts from the overall appeal of the dish. Stir-frying quickly at a high temperature allows the flavors to meld without losing the vegetables' freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your veggie fried rice hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a simple salad to elevate the meal further.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving it alongside a protein source like grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu. This not only enhances the dish but also adds variety to your plate, making it visually appealing and nutritionally balanced.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Yes! Day-old rice works best as it is drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add broccoli, corn, snap peas, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just skip the egg and use tofu or tempeh as a protein source.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Simple Veggie Fried Rice Lunch

Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal with this simple veggie fried rice recipe, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Tabitha Collins

Recipe Type: Home Quick Meals Ideas

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  2. 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  3. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  4. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  5. 2 green onions, chopped
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Optional: 1 egg, beaten

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.

Step 02

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 03

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.

Step 04

Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir to evenly coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 05

Stir in the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 06

If using, push the rice to one side of the skillet, pour the beaten egg on the other side, and scramble until fully cooked. Mix into the rice.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 10g