Vegetarian Fried Rice (Easy, Flavor-Packed & Cozy Weeknight Dinner)

This Vegetarian Fried Rice is quick, comforting, and packed with savory flavor — fluffy rice stir-fried with colorful vegetables, eggs, garlic, and soy sauce for a cozy meal that comes together fast. It’s an easy, satisfying dinner and a perfect way to use up leftover rice on busy weeknights.

Serve it alongside hearty vegetarian favorites like Black Bean & Sweet Potato Tacos, cozy bowls of Hearty Minestrone Soup, or a cheesy comfort dish like Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole for a complete meatless meal everyone will love.

Whether you’re planning a meatless Monday or just craving a simple, cozy dinner, this vegetarian fried rice delivers big flavor with minimal effort — and it pairs beautifully with so many of your go-to vegetarian recipes.

Why You’ll Love This

• Flavorful fried rice loaded with vegetables

• Quick, satisfying meatless meal made in one pan

• Great way to use leftover rice and pantry ingredients

• Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or easy lunches

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 13g

• Carbohydrates: 52g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

• 3 cups cooked, cold rice (day-old works best)

• 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

• ½ cup diced onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving (Optional)

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds

• Chili oil or sriracha

Instructions

1. Scramble the Eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add beaten eggs and cook, gently scrambling until just set. Remove eggs from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

Add remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in peas and carrots and cook for 2 minutes.

3. Add the Rice

Add cooked rice to the skillet. Spread it out and let it cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes to lightly crisp. Stir and repeat once more.

4. Season

Drizzle soy sauce and rice vinegar over the rice. Sprinkle with ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat.

5. Finish

Return scrambled eggs to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Tips for Best Results

• Cold, day-old rice prevents mushy fried rice

• Use a wide skillet or wok for even cooking

• Let the rice sit briefly before stirring for crispy bits

• Add mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers for variety

Final Thoughts

This Vegetarian Fried Rice is proof that simple ingredients can still deliver big comfort and flavor. It’s quick, cozy, endlessly customizable, and perfect for nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of effort.

If you love easy vegetarian dinners, be sure to try Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese, Mediterranean Chickpea Stew, or Baked Eggplant Parmesan for more cozy, meatless favorites.