Lo Mein

Lo Mein is a classic Asian-inspired noodle dish that combines tender egg noodles with vibrant, sautéed vegetables and a flavorful, savory sauce. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the perfect balance between the tender chew of lo mein noodles and the fresh crunch of vegetables like snow peas, carrots, and bell peppers. The sauce, with its blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a touch of sriracha, adds just the right amount of depth and spice to bring the dish to life. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, lo mein is versatile and satisfying.

What makes lo mein especially great is how customizable it is—you can add your favorite proteins or swap vegetables to suit your pantry or preferences. Plus, it cooks up quickly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe offers a delicious, wholesome meal packed with flavor and texture that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick to Prepare

Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Loaded with Fresh Vegetables

Brings color, crunch, and nutrition to your plate.

Balanced Flavors

Savory soy, sweet sugar, and spicy sriracha combine beautifully.

One-Pan Cooking

Easy sauté method keeps cleanup minimal.

Highly Customizable

Add chicken, tofu, or shrimp or swap veggies to suit your taste.

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Ingredients

• Lo mein egg noodles
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Cremini mushrooms
• Red bell pepper
• Carrot
• Snow peas
• Baby spinach
• Reduced sodium soy sauce
• Sugar
• Sesame oil
• Ground ginger
• Sriracha

Variations

Add Protein

Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu for a heartier meal.

Use Different Vegetables

Try broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, or zucchini to change things up.

Make It Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.

Adjust Heat Level

Increase or decrease sriracha based on your preferred spice level.

Add Nuts or Seeds

Top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for extra texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3

Add sliced cremini mushrooms, julienned red bell pepper, and carrot. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables start to soften, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4

Add snow peas and baby spinach to the skillet, cooking until spinach wilts and peas are tender-crisp.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and sriracha.

Step 6

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and toss well to combine and heat through.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook Noodles

Cook noodles just until al dente and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

Use Fresh Vegetables

For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, crisp vegetables.

Stir Frequently

Keep stirring while sautéing to avoid burning and to cook evenly.

Taste and Adjust

Balance the sauce by adding more soy sauce, sugar, or sriracha according to preference.

Serve Hot

Lo mein is best enjoyed immediately for the freshest flavors.

How to Serve

Serve lo mein as a satisfying main dish or alongside other Asian-inspired dishes such as dumplings, spring rolls, or miso soup. Garnish with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Lo mein does not freeze well due to the vegetables and noodles, so it’s best to enjoy fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles if needed.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, rice noodles or spaghetti can be substituted if needed.

How do I make it vegetarian or vegan?

Ensure your soy sauce is vegan and skip any animal-based additions.

Can I add meat or tofu?

Absolutely. Add cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu when adding the sauce.

Is lo mein gluten-free?

Traditional lo mein noodles contain wheat. Use gluten-free noodles and tamari for a gluten-free version.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild spice from sriracha but can be adjusted to your liking.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge.

How can I make it less oily?

Use less olive oil or substitute with a non-stick cooking spray.

What can I use instead of sugar?

Honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute can be used.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or cook in batches.

How do I store leftovers to keep vegetables crisp?

Cool leftovers quickly and store in airtight containers; reheat gently to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Lo Mein is a delicious, quick, and versatile dish that brings together tender noodles, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce with just the right hint of sweetness and spice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe can be easily customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular favorite.

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