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A beautifully plated bowl of side dish lo mein noodles with a glossy savory sauce topped with crisp vegetables.
Jana Rae

Side Dish Lo Mein

This quick and easy side dish lo mein is packed with savory flavors, crisp vegetables, and a delicious homemade sauce. Ready in 15 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 290
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti as a substitute
  • 1 tsp sesame oil prevents sticking
For the Lo Mein Sauce
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce low sodium works too
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for vegetarian
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce optional, adds depth & color
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for spice
For the Vegetables
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • ½ cup carrots julienned
  • ½ cup bell peppers thinly sliced
  • ½ cup snap peas or broccoli florets
  • ¼ cup green onions sliced
  • ½ cup mushrooms sliced (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions.
  2. Drain and toss with 1 tsp sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Set aside for later.
  5. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
  7. Stir in the green onions and cook for another 30 seconds.
  8. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and toss to combine with the vegetables.
  9. Pour the prepared lo mein sauce over the noodles and mix well, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  10. Cook for 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors absorb.
  11. Remove from heat and garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
  12. Serve as a side dish alongside stir-fries, dumplings, or grilled meats.

Notes

  • Noodle Substitutes: If you can't find lo mein noodles, use spaghetti, fettuccine, or ramen noodles as an alternative.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Substitute hoisin sauce for oyster sauce and use plant-based noodles.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and swap for rice noodles or zucchini noodles.
  • Storage & Reheating:
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavor.
    • Freezing is not recommended as the noodles can become mushy.
  • Add Protein: Turn it into a meal by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu.
This easy side dish lo mein is perfect for pairing with stir-fries, dumplings, or as part of an Asian-inspired feast! 🍜😊