When time is short but you still want something homemade, comforting, and delicious, easy vegetable fried rice is the answer. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
This recipe transforms leftover rice and basic vegetables into a satisfying one-pan meal that tastes even better than takeout. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Fried Rice
This recipe is a weeknight favorite because it’s:
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Fast and easy to make
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Budget-friendly
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Made with pantry staples
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Packed with vegetables
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Perfect for using leftover rice
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Customizable and family-friendly
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients for Easy Vegetable Fried Rice
Main Ingredients
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3 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
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2 eggs, lightly beaten
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
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1 cup frozen peas and carrots
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½ cup corn kernels
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½ cup diced bell peppers
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2 green onions, sliced
Seasoning & Sauce
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3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon white pepper (optional)
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½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional but flavorful)
How to Make Easy Vegetable Fried Rice – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Cold, day-old rice works best for fried rice because it’s drier and doesn’t turn mushy. If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Pour in beaten eggs and gently scramble until just set. Remove eggs from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Sauté onion until soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Add peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are heated through and slightly tender.
Step 5: Add Rice and Sauce
Add cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps using a spatula. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and toss well to coat evenly.
Cook for 4–5 minutes, allowing the rice to crisp slightly at the bottom.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return scrambled eggs to the pan. Add black pepper and white pepper if using. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Finish with sliced green onions.
Tipsfor the Best Vegetable Fried Rice
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Use cold rice for best texture
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Cook ingredients in stages
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Don’t overcrowd the pan
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Keep heat at medium-high
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Taste before adding extra soy sauce
These small tips make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Easy Variations to Try
Vegetable fried rice is incredibly flexible:
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Protein Boost: Add tofu, shrimp, or cooked chicken
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Spicy Version: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha
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Healthier Option: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice
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Asian-Inspired: Add ginger or oyster sauce
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Vegan Version: Skip eggs or use plant-based egg substitute
What to Serve with Vegetable Fried Rice
This dish works as both a main and a side. Serve it with:
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Vegetable spring rolls
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Sweet and sour tofu
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Stir-fried noodles
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Simple cucumber salad
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water
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Stir well while reheating for even warmth
This makes it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.
Nutrition & Benefits
Vegetable fried rice provides:
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Fiber and vitamins from vegetables
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Energy from rice
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Protein from eggs
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A balanced, satisfying meal
You can easily adjust ingredients to match your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Yes, but let it cool completely to avoid soggy fried rice.
Is vegetable fried rice healthy?
Yes, especially when made at home with controlled oil and sodium.
Can I freeze vegetable fried rice?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Easy vegetable fried rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. It’s quick, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, all while using simple ingredients and one pan. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or craving comfort food, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.