Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables: A Healthy and Flavorful Side Dish

If you love the fresh, crisp, and lightly seasoned mixed vegetables from Panda Express, then you’re in for a treat! This Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables recipe allows you to enjoy the same flavorful, nutritious, and perfectly cooked veggies at home.

Packed with broccoli, zucchini, carrots, green beans, and cabbage, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light meal, or part of a larger Asian-inspired dinner, these vegetables add a fresh and vibrant touch to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick – Ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Perfectly Cooked – Crisp-tender vegetables with a delicious garlic and ginger aroma.
• Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings.
• Panda Express Flavor at Home – Enjoy the same great taste without the takeout price.

Ingredients for Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables

Here’s everything you need to create this simple and delicious vegetable stir-fry:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken stock	16 oz
Soy sauce	1 tsp
Broccoli florets	1 cup
Zucchini, sliced into half circles	1 cup
Carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces	1 cup
Green beans, trimmed and cut in half	½ lb
Green cabbage, cut into large pieces	½ head
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp
Toasted sesame oil	¼ tsp
Minced garlic	½ tsp
Minced fresh ginger	½ tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash and chop all your vegetables:
  • Broccoli into bite-sized florets.
  • Zucchini into half-circle slices.
  • Carrots into 1-inch pieces.
  • Green beans trimmed and halved.
  • Cabbage into large chunks.

2. Heat the Oils

• In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil and toasted sesame oil over medium-high heat.

3. Sauté Garlic and Ginger

• Add minced garlic and fresh ginger to the hot oil.
• Cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• Add broccoli, zucchini, carrots, green beans, and cabbage to the skillet.
• Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, tossing frequently to ensure even cooking.

5. Add the Broth and Soy Sauce

• Pour in the chicken stock and soy sauce.
• Stir well, ensuring all vegetables are coated.

6. Simmer Until Tender

• Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
• The vegetables should be tender yet crisp.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
• Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it as a light, healthy meal!

Health Benefits of Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables

1. High in Fiber and Nutrients

• Broccoli, carrots, and cabbage are rich in fiber, aiding digestion and gut health.

2. Loaded with Antioxidants

• Green beans and zucchini provide antioxidants that protect against disease.

3. Supports Heart Health

• Sesame oil and olive oil contain healthy fats that support cardiovascular function.

4. Boosts Immunity

• Garlic and ginger have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense

• This dish is naturally low in calories but packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Tips for the Best Mixed Vegetables

1. Don’t Overcook the Veggies

• Keep them crisp-tender for the best texture and flavor.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables enhance the taste significantly.

3. Add Extra Seasoning

• Try adding a dash of black pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of rice vinegar for more flavor.

4. Swap the Protein

• Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu to turn this side dish into a complete meal.

5. Use a Hot Wok or Skillet

• Cooking at high heat helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Tasty Variations to Try

1. Make It Vegan

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a fully plant-based dish.

2. Add More Vegetables

• Try adding snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for variety.

3. Use a Different Sauce

• Instead of soy sauce, try teriyaki sauce, oyster sauce, or hoisin sauce.

4. Make It Spicy

• Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chopped chilies for some heat.

5. Turn It Into a Stir-Fry Meal

• Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a filling dinner.

Serving Suggestions

These Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables pair perfectly with:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Fried rice or vegetable lo mein
• Grilled chicken or teriyaki salmon
• Tofu stir-fry for a vegetarian option

Storage & Reheating Tips

1. How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended, as vegetables may become mushy when thawed.

2. How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but they may release more moisture, so adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. Can I substitute the chicken stock?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth or water instead.

3. What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can use extra vegetable oil, but sesame oil adds a delicious nutty flavor.

4. Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes! Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

5. How do I make this dish completely soy-free?

Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

6. What’s the best way to keep the vegetables crisp?

Stir-fry at high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Final Thoughts

This Panda Express Inspired Mixed Vegetables recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re making it as part of an Asian-inspired dinner or enjoying it on its own, these vegetables are sure to become a favorite.

Try this recipe today and bring the taste of Panda Express to your home!

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