Recreate the fan-favorite Panda Express Chow Mein at home with this healthier, low-fat version that's bursting with bold flavors and vibrant vegetables. This recipe combines tender yakitori or chow mein noodles with a colorful medley of crisp celery, sweet onions, and fresh cabbage, all stir-fried in a light blend of vegetable and sesame oil. Infused with garlic, ginger, and low-sodium soy sauce, each bite is a perfect balance of savory and satisfying without the extra calories. Ready in just 30 minutes, this homemade chow mein is an easy, guilt-free way to enjoy the classic takeout experience. Garnished with green onions, it's ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and cook the yakitori or chow mein noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables: slice the onion into thin strips, chop the celery into small diagonal pieces, and shred the cabbage. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Chop the green onions into small rounds for garnish.
Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil and sesame oil.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced onion and celery to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add the shredded cabbage and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until all the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add the drained noodles to the skillet and gently toss them with the vegetables.
Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce and add black pepper to taste, mixing well to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Calories |
642 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.6 g | 48% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.0 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 140 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 2504 mg | 109% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 36.3 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.4 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.5 g | ||
| Protein | 46.0 g | 92% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 191 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1228 mg | 26% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.