The Vegetable Medley from Noodles & Company features a vibrant mix of fresh broccoli, zucchini, squash, and carrots sauteed in a light garlic sauce, delivering a colorful and flavorful dish with a crisp-tender texture.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press (optional)
- Colander or strainer
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 medium yellow squash
- 1 large carrot
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Salt
- Black pepper
Fresh broccoli florets, zucchini, yellow squash, and a large carrot are essential to replicate the Vegetable Medley's crisp-tender texture found at Noodles & Company. Using fresh garlic cloves and a good-quality olive oil enhances the flavor of the light garlic sauce that coats the vegetables. Soy sauce combined with cornstarch and water creates a perfect savory glaze without overpowering the natural taste of your veggies. To maintain the vibrant colors and textures, avoid overcooking and stir frequently while sauteing in a large skillet or saute pan. Your homemade Vegetable Medley from Noodles & Company copycat menu will shine when these ingredient details are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
- Peel the carrot.
- Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Slice zucchini and yellow squash into half-moons.
- Slice carrot into thin rounds or matchsticks.
- Mince the garlic (use garlic press if available).
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, water, and cornstarch; mix until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli, zucchini, squash, and carrots to skillet.
- Stir-fry vegetables for 4–6 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add soy sauce mixture to skillet.
- Toss vegetables to coat evenly in sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Vegetable Medley from Noodles & Company copycat recipe can easily be customized based on your kitchen staples and preferences. If fresh broccoli or zucchini is unavailable, frozen vegetables serve as a convenient alternative while preserving texture and flavor when cooked properly. Garlic powder can substitute fresh garlic if needed, although the taste will be milder. When soy sauce is not on hand, tamari or coconut aminos offer a similar umami profile suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Be sure to adjust cooking times to maintain a crisp-tender consistency and avoid overcooking your medley.
Tips
Ensure all vegetables are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and pesticides. When stir-frying, keep the heat medium-high to achieve a crisp-tender texture without overcooking, which can result in soggy vegetables. Mix the soy sauce, water, and cornstarch well before adding to prevent lumps and ensure even sauce thickening. Your careful timing of garlic sauteing is crucial; cook just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
Nutritions
The Vegetable Medley from Noodles & Company provides significant nutritional benefits with its blend of broccoli, zucchini, squash, and carrots, all rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Sauteed in a tablespoon of olive oil, this dish offers healthy fats that support heart health. The inclusion of garlic contributes compounds known for boosting the immune system. You can enjoy this colorful, crisp-tender vegetable mix as a nutritious side or main component in your meal plan.
Storage
Store your Vegetable Medley in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crisp-tender texture and vibrant flavors, ideally consuming it within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to preserve the vegetables' sauteed quality without becoming soggy. Avoid freezing, as the delicate texture of zucchini, squash, and broccoli may deteriorate upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap out broccoli for snow peas or green beans to add a different crunch and flavor profile to your vegetable medley. Consider using tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free while retaining a rich, savory taste. For a twist, replace olive oil with sesame oil to introduce a warm, nutty aroma to the sauteed vegetables. Stir-frying on high heat ensures a crisp-tender texture, but if you prefer softer vegetables, reduce the heat and cook for a few extra minutes.
Allergies
The Vegetable Medley contains soy sauce, which often includes soy, a common allergen that could trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Garlic and black pepper might also cause mild allergies or sensitivities in some people. You should check the ingredient list carefully if you have known food allergies or intolerances.
Why this recipe?
Noodles & Company's Vegetable Medley menu offers a vibrant combination of fresh, seasonal vegetables that deliver both flavor and nutrition in every bite. The dish balances colorful produce with authentic Asian-inspired sauces, catering to health-conscious diners seeking lighter, yet satisfying options. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients and control portion sizes while enjoying the restaurant's signature taste at home. Your copycat preparation can ensure freshness and personalization, making it a delicious and wholesome alternative.