Fast Fried Rice with Veggies

Name: Fast Fried Rice with Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.); 2 eggs, beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I love whipping up this Fast Fried Rice with Veggies when I'm short on time but still craving something satisfying. It's one of those dishes that comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Utilizing leftover rice not only saves time but also adds texture, while the colorful veggies provide a burst of flavor and nutrients. This recipe is so versatile, allowing you to throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal option for using up produce before it goes bad.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:10:28.619Z

When I first made this Fast Fried Rice with Veggies, it was one of those throw-together meals that turned out to be a family favorite. The secret lies in using day-old rice; it fries up perfectly without getting mushy, providing that delightful texture I love. I also like to add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for a rich, savory flavor that elevates the simplest ingredients.

Experimenting with different seasonal vegetables has been a game-changer for me. I once used asparagus and snap peas, and they added such a fresh crunch! I always recommend sautéing the veggies separately first to ensure they maintain their vibrant color and crispness. Give this a try—you'll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just minutes
Versatile with options to use any leftover veggies
Loaded with flavor thanks to soy sauce and sesame oil

Choosing Your Vegetables

When making this Fast Fried Rice with Veggies, your choice of vegetables can greatly influence the flavor and texture. I recommend using a mix of carrots, peas, and bell peppers for their sweetness and crunch, but feel free to get creative! Broccoli, snap peas, or even leftover roasted vegetables can work wonders. Just be mindful of cooking times; delicate veggies like spinach or zucchini should be added towards the end to prevent overcooking.

If you opt for frozen vegetables, there's no need to thaw them before adding them to the skillet. Just toss them in directly from the freezer and stir-fry for an extra minute or two to cook off any excess moisture. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also maintains the vibrant colors and nutrients of the veggies.

Perfecting the Rice

Using day-old rice is crucial for achieving the best texture in your fried rice. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist, leading to a mushy outcome. I recommend cooking the rice a day in advance, allowing it to cool completely, and then refrigerating it. This helps the grains firm up, making them easier to separate while stir-frying.

If you find yourself short on time or don’t have leftovers, you can spread freshly cooked rice onto a baking sheet and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This cooling process helps reduce moisture content and creates that perfect slightly chewy texture ideal for frying.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Beyond soy sauce and sesame oil, consider adding additional flavor boosters to elevate your fried rice. A splash of rice vinegar adds acidity, while a drizzle of chili oil can provide a spicy kick. You might also experiment with garlic and ginger; sautéing them briefly before adding the veggies deepens the flavor profile tremendously.

For a different twist, try incorporating proteins like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu into your dish. If you're using raw proteins, cook them first in the skillet, then remove and set aside before proceeding with the veggies. This way, they’ll stay tender and juicy instead of overcooked.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.)
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious fried rice:

Cook the Veggies

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, add the beaten eggs to the other side, and scramble them until just set, about 1-2 minutes.

Fry the Rice

Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and green onions. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade fried rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal. Also, using day-old rice is key to achieving the perfect texture, so prepare rice a day in advance if possible.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive that moisture and prevent sticking. Try to avoid microwaving, as it can lead to uneven heating and a less desirable texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fried rice. Cool it completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will maintain its flavor for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your fast fried rice with a light protein, such as grilled chicken or fish, for a complete meal. A simple side salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette can add freshness and contrast. Alternatively, serve it alongside dumplings or spring rolls to make it a more filling dinner.

For an extra pop of flavor, top your fried rice with a fried egg. The runny yolk adds creaminess and richness, making each bite more indulgent. Sprinkle some additional green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish and a little crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Using day-old rice is preferable because it’s drier and fries better. If you must use fresh rice, try to cool it down in the refrigerator for a bit.

→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?

You can use any vegetables you like! Carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers, and green beans are all great choices.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs and consider adding tofu or extra veggies for protein.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a dash of chili sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the rice while cooking for a kick of heat.