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, corn, bell peppers); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I love making this Fast Fried Rice with Veggies when I need a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to use up whatever vegetables I have in the fridge, and the whole dish comes together in just 20 minutes. The fried rice is not only colorful and appetizing, but the flavors blend beautifully when paired with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil. It's a total crowd-pleaser that doesn’t skimp on taste even though it’s incredibly fast to prepare.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-02T16:26:27.888Z

When I first tried making fried rice at home, I was amazed at how simple it was to whip up a flavorful dish in less than half an hour. After experimenting with various combinations of vegetables, I discovered that using frozen mixed veggies was a game-changer for speed without sacrificing quality. The key is to have your ingredients prepped and ready so that you can toss them into the pan as soon as the oil is hot.

One tip I’ve found invaluable is to use day-old rice if you can. It’s drier and allows for a better texture when frying, preventing any sogginess that can happen with fresh rice. A sprinkle of green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving takes this dish to a whole new level!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes
Versatile, allowing you to use any leftover veggies
Delicious blend of textures and flavors that satisfy
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep

Ingredient Insights

The choice of rice in this Fast Fried Rice with Veggies greatly influences the final texture of your dish. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s drier and holds its shape better during cooking, preventing the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you have to use freshly made rice, allow it to cool completely and spread it on a baking sheet to dry out a little; this will help achieve the desired firmness when frying.

Incorporating a variety of mixed vegetables not only adds colorful visual appeal but also enhances the nutritional profile of your fried rice. Carrots provide a subtle sweetness, while bell peppers and peas bring freshness and crunch. Feel free to experiment with whatever veggies are on hand, such as zucchini or broccoli, as they can all be sautéed effectively within the same timeframe.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Fried Rice

The key to great fried rice is the sizzling technique used in stir-frying. Ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding oil—aim for a shimmering surface. This high heat helps to create a slight caramelization on the rice and vegetables, building flavor. Stir constantly to avoid sticking and to ensure even cooking, while maintaining that distinct 'fried' texture throughout the dish.

Don’t rush the cooking process; take your time to sauté the garlic and vegetables properly. This step should take about 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat. You want the vegetables to retain some of their crunch while absorbing the garlicky aroma. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly. The subtle caramelization will enhance the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Fast Fried Rice

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your vegetables and chop them into small pieces. Mince the garlic and set aside. Make sure your rice is ready; if you're using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry slightly.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sauté Garlic and Vegetables

Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Add Rice and Seasoning

Increase the heat to high, then add the cooked rice. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything together, breaking up any clumps of rice.

Finish and Serve

Add the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve hot.

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding scrambled eggs or tofu to the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some chili flakes or sriracha sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Fast Fried Rice can easily be made ahead, making it a super convenient option for meal prep. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the flavors and prevent it from drying out.

If you’re considering a larger batch for future meals, this fried rice freezes well too. Just allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your palate or dietary needs. For a protein boost, consider adding scrambled eggs or diced tofu after the garlic and veggies have sautéed. If you want a spicy kick, add a touch of sriracha or chili sauce along with the soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

For those who prefer a low-carb option, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Cook it initially for 2-3 minutes to soften before following the remaining steps. This way, you’ll maintain the dish's vibrant flavor profile while keeping it lighter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to chop them small and cook them until tender.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit any eggs or non-vegan proteins and ensure your soy sauce is plant-based.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but it's best to cook it fresh for optimal texture and flavor.