FREE 5-Ingredient Recipe EBook

• I Love This Easy Fried Rice Recipe For Busy Nights
• Ingredients & Substitutions
• How To Make Fried Rice
• My Recipe Tips
• Easy Fried Rice Recipe card
• Serving Ideas
• Recipe Variations
• Recipe Reviews

I Love This Easy Fried Rice Recipe For Busy Nights

I usually stick with cauliflower fried rice as my go-to healthy side, especially when we’re having stir fry or hibachi chicken at home — but my kids? They’re all about the real deal. So, I came up with this easy fried rice recipe. If you’ve ever wondered how to make fried rice that tastes like takeout but comes together in one pan at home, this is it. Here’s why:

• Full of flavor with tender veggies – The garlic, sesame oil, and coconut aminos give that salty-umami flavor we love, and my timing leaves the veggies just tender. No mushy carrots here.
• Perfect for leftover rice – Cold rice from the fridge actually works best here. It keeps the grains from clumping and gives the fried rice that classic texture.
• Easy and customizable – It all comes together in one skillet in about 15 minutes, and I switch it up with whatever’s in the fridge — eggs, chicken , shrimp , or different veggies. See my recipe variations below for more ideas!

When you need a quick side (that your family will actually eat ) to serve with your Asian meal, this is my best fried rice recipe for that. Make it with me!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my easy fried rice recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card .

• Olive Oil – I usually fry everything in light olive oil because it’s what I have on hand, but avocado oil or refined sesame oil work too. Some people use sesame oil to fry, but I save toasted sesame oil for the end — it adds flavor but burns fast.
• Frozen Veggies – I go for frozen peas and carrots to keep things easy, but fresh veggies work too if you’ve got the time.
• Garlic – I always add fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can swap in 1 teaspoon jarred garlic or even 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder if needed.
• Eggs – These add protein and that classic egg fried rice vibe.
• Cooked Rice – Day-old rice is best because it holds its shape, but I’ve used fresh in a pinch. Jasmine, long grain rice, or even brown rice all work great.
• Butter – Just a few tablespoons add so much flavor and richness. I use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Totally optional, but I like to drizzle a little in at the end for that classic nutty flavor. It adds so much depth, even in small amounts!
• Coconut Aminos – This is my go-to soy sauce alternative . It’s a little sweeter, soy-free, and still gives that rich, savory flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce works too if that’s what you’ve got.
• Green Onions – Optional, but I love sprinkling chopped scallions on top for color and flavor right before serving.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper

How To Make Fried Rice

I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card .

1. Cook the veggies. Heat oil in a large skillet and add the peas and carrots. Sauté until they’re soft.
2. Add garlic. Turn the heat down and stir in the garlic (if using) until it smells amazing.
3. Scramble the eggs. Push the veggies to the side, crack in the eggs, and scramble them right in the pan.

1. Mix it all together. Add the rice, butter, and coconut aminos or soy sauce. Stir it all up and cook until heated through.
2. Finish and serve. Drizzle in sesame oil (if using), season to taste, and toss. I like to garnish it with green onions.

My Recipe Tips

• Preheat your pan. I let the pan heat up before adding anything — it helps the veggies sauté quickly and keeps the rice from sticking.
• Don’t skip the garlic. It’s optional, but I always add it — just a little makes a big flavor difference.
• Bring eggs to room temp. I stick them in warm water for a few minutes — they cook more evenly that way.
• Use day-old rice. Fresh rice can get mushy — I always make mine the day before and chill it so the grains stay chewy.
• Break up the rice. I just use my hands or a fork to break up clumps before cooking so everything gets coated evenly.
• Use the butter and sesame oil. These are my not-so-secret flavor boosters! I melt in butter for richness and finish with sesame oil for that nutty takeout taste.
• Toss in leftovers. Got extra chicken, veggies, or even shrimp? This recipe is perfect for using them up (see more ideas below!).

Ingredients

Tap underlined ingredients to see the ones I use.

• 1 tbsp Olive oil ▢
• 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots ▢
• 2 cloves Garlic (optional) ▢
• 2 large Eggs (at room temperature if possible) ▢
• 3 cups Cooked white rice (or cauliflower rice ) ▢
• 3 tbsp Unsalted butter ▢
• 2 tsp Toasted sesame oil (optional) ▢
• 1/4 cup Coconut aminos (or soy sauce) ▢
• 1 tsp Sea salt (to taste) ▢
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste) ▢
• 2 medium Green onions (optional, for garnish) ▢

Instructions

Tap on the times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer.

1. In a large skillet , heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the frozen peas and carrots. Saute for about 3 minutes , until soft.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, if using. Saute for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the middle of the skillet and scramble for about 2 minutes , until fully cooked.
5. Add the cooked rice (or cauliflower rice), butter, and coconut aminos or soy sauce. Mix everything together. Cook the fried rice for 3-5 minutes , until warm.
6. Stir in the toasted sesame oil, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

LAST STEP: Leave a rating to help other readers, or tag me @wholesomeyum on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!

Maya’s Recipe Notes

Serving size: 1 cup

• Tips: Check out my recipe tips above to help you you get the best texture, more flavor, and a fried rice that comes out just right every time.
• Variations: Don’t miss my recipe variations below to help you switch things up with extra protein, different veggies, or fun toppings that make it your own.
• Serving ideas: Take a look at my serving ideas to help you turn this fried rice into a full meal — whether you’re craving chicken, beef, veggies, or something fresh on the side.
• Store: Pop cooled rice in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave if you’re short on time.
• Freeze: Let it cool, then freeze in a bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Note on nutrition info: The nutrition info does not include optional ingredients.

📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Healthy Ebook Bundle !

I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy .

Add Your NotesYour Notes

© Copyright Maya Krampf for Wholesome Yum. Please DO NOT SCREENSHOT OR COPY/PASTE recipes to social media or websites. We’d LOVE for you to share a link with photo instead.

Easy Fried Rice

Serving Ideas

This easy fried rice is super versatile — it’s the perfect side to pair with any of my Asian recipes , and here are a few of my favorite combos:

• Chicken – I usually pair it with teriyaki , hibachi , honey sriracha chicken , or Szechuan chicken . It goes with pretty much any Asian-style chicken dish.
• Beef or pork – It’s great next to Hunan beef , crispy pork belly , or even my popular egg roll in a bowl .
• Keep it vegetarian – Sometimes I just pile on stir fried veggies and call it dinner.
• Add a salad – I like serving it with something fresh like smashed cucumber salad , kani salad , or my new fresh Asian salad .

Recipe Variations

Want to mix it up? Here are some of my favorite ways to change up this fried rice and make it your own:

• Add some protein. I love tossing in chicken, pork chops , shrimp — even leftover pepper steak if I have some. Just cook it first, set it aside, and stir it back in at the end.
• Make it cauliflower fried rice. When I want something lighter, I swap the rice for cauliflower rice . I’ve got a go-to version for that too (and even a cauliflower chicken fried rice !).
• Switch up the veggies. I mix in whatever I have in the fridge — bell peppers, mushrooms, cabbage, broccoli, or snow peas all work great.
• Make it spicy. A little sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. I adjust the heat depending on who I’m feeding.
• Top it with an egg. If I’m serving this as a main dish, I love adding a coddled egg on top. The runny yolk takes it to another level.

Free Printable: Low Carb & Keto Food List

• Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?
• The Basic Keto Meal Formula
• Understanding Macros
• Keto Food Swaps
• Keto Food List
• Electrolyte Basics
• Keto Diet Types
• Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?
• Recipe Reviews

Even though I have a great guide to starting a keto diet , people often ask me for a quick keto cheat sheet they can use. That’s why I created this simple keto diet cheat sheet , so that you can have all the info you need handy. We’ll cover the basic keto formula for building meals, foods to eat and to avoid, delicious keto swaps for high-carb foods, electrolyte basics, and 4 ways to follow the keto lifestyle.

You can keep reading to view this info, or download my keto cheat sheet printable pdf to print out or save ad-free on any device (plus the pdf has more details!).

Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?

Get all this information and MORE in convenient printer-friendly format – 13 cheat sheet pages you can take with you anywhere or keep in your kitchen, plus 4 recipe cookbooks! Includes:

1. Keto food list (230+ foods) – Super detailed & color-coded, with net carb counts, so you’ll know exactly what to eat.
2. Foods to avoid on keto – Detailed and specific list so that you know exactly what to watch out for.
3. Macros cheat sheet – Explains everything you need to know about macros to succeed on keto.
4. Keto food swaps (60+ foods) – Covers virtually every food you love, so you don’t have to miss out!
5. Keto meal formula – With specific food ideas, so it’s easy to mix-and-match.
6. Keto flu guide – Understand what it is and exactly how to avoid it.
7. Electrolyte cheat sheet – With whole food ideas + bonus keto tips.
8. Keto Diet Types – Summary of 4 ways to do keto, so you can choose what fits you best.
9. FOUR (4!) Keto Swaps Recipe EBooks – Dozens of recipes to replace bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, desserts, and other carbs you’d otherwise miss.

Get The Printable Keto Cheat Sheet System + EBooks (Only $37)

The Basic Keto Meal Formula

Eating keto doesn’t have to be complicated! While there are plenty of delicious easy keto recipes to choose from, you don’t even have to cook from a recipe to get started.

Simply follow the keto cheat sheet formula of protein + veggie + fat for your meals.

Be sure to choose a moderate amount of protein, only low carb vegetables (mostly ones that grow above ground), and generous fat to attain an optimal macro ratio. That’s approximately 60-75% of calories from fat, 20-25% protein, and 5-10% from carbohydrates. The table below will give you ideas for what to choose.

Understanding Macros

Macros are macronutrients for short. They include fat, protein, and carbohydrates.

You can calculate your own macros using the macro calculator , but the macro keto cheat sheet below will explain how to look at macros when following a keto lifestyle.

Carbs Are A Limit.

Keeping carbs low is what gets you into ketosis and keeps you there. Ketosis means that you’re using fat as your primary energy source instead of sugar, and requires keeping carbs very low.

A good starting point is 20-25 grams net carbs per day, but you can experiment after a few weeks to see if your body stays in ketosis at higher levels. People who are very active may be able to do more and stay in ketosis, up to around 50 grams per day.

“Carbs are a limit” means that you set a limit for how many carbs to eat per day and don’t exceed it. You don’t have to hit that limit, so if you’re under that’s okay, just don’t go over. Ideally most of your carbs would come from low carb vegetables, and if you’re eating enough veggies, you’ll usually get close to the limit naturally.

A common misconception is that reaching ketosis requires a certain macro ratio, but it’s really only restricting your carb intake that gets you there [ * ]. In the absence of sufficient carbs to use as energy, the body will switch to using fat as fuel. This is called the metabolic state of ketosis.

Protein Is A Goal.

Protein is made up of amino acids, the building blocks of all our cells. It’s a crucial for keeping our muscles strong and for many cellular functions [ * ].

“Protein is a goal” means that you always want to eat enough protein to reach the goal each day, but not exceed it too much. You want enough for your needs, but excess protein can trigger gluconeogenesis, which is protein being converted to sugar [ * ] and can kick you out of ketosis.

Fat Is A Lever.

Fat is the primary macronutrient in a keto lifestyle, because being in ketosis means that fat is your primary fuel source. Fat as a fuel source will come from your food, and if you are losing weight, from your body.

A big advantage of a keto lifestyle is the high fat intake. It keeps you full and satisfied, making it easier to stick to, and using it as the primary fuel source makes it easier on your body to burn body fat, with a lower chance of breaking down your muscle (provided you get enough protein).

Aside from reaching your protein goal and limiting your carbs, the remainder of your calories on a keto diet comes from fat.

Don’t fear fat – it’s your main energy source on keto, and getting enough of it trains your body to use fat for fuel instead of sugar. That means that as long as you are not overdoing your overall calorie intake, you’ll efficiently burn your body fat for fuel as well.

“Fat is a lever” means that you can increase or decrease your fat intake depending on your goals and hunger levels. Increase it (along with exercise) to gain muscle, or decrease it to lose weight.

Keto Food Swaps

One of my favorite challenges is creating recipes, or just discovering, keto food swaps. These are delicious keto replacements for traditionally high-carb or high-sugar foods.

So, I created this keto diet cheat sheet with all the swaps in one place! I also have more keto food swaps in my Easy Keto Cookbook .

Keto Swaps For Breakfast

Keto Swaps For Bread

Keto Swaps For Meals & Side Dishes

Keto Swaps For Snacks & Sauces

Keto Swaps For Cooking & Baking

Keto Swaps For Drinks

If you’re looking specifically for keto alcohol options, browse the full keto alcohol guide .

Keto Food List

When looking for a keto cheat sheet printable, the most-requested information is a keto food list.

The great thing is that keto doesn’t have to feel restrictive. It’s incredibly satisfying and there’s such a wide variety of foods you can eat!

Foods To Eat On Keto

• Leafy greens – Such as spinach, chard, and lettuce.
• Above-ground veggies – Such as peppers, zucchini, and cauliflower.
• Full-fat cream & cheese – Such as heavy cream, sour cream, and full-fat hard cheeses.
• Natural meats – Such as beef, lamb, and pork.
• Berries – Such as raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries.
• Avocados
• Unsweetened nut milks – Such as almond milk and coconut milk.
• Almond flour and coconut flour
• Eggs
• Healthy fats – Such as coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil and butter.

Foods To Avoid On Keto

• White flour & sugar
• Rice & grains – Such as barley, wheat, and corn.
• Milk & yogurt – Such as fruit on the bottom yogurt, sweetened Greek yogurt, and all milk.
• Cereal
• Processed food – Such as granola bars, candy
• Most fruit – Such as apples, bananas, and grapes
• Hydrogenated fats – Such as vegetable oil, soybean oil, and margarine
• Sweetened beverages & condiments – Such as soda, ketchup, and sweet dressings
• Starchy veggies – Such as peas, carrots, and beets.
• Potatoes – Such as sweet potatoes and white potatoes.

That’s the short keto diet cheat sheet version of all the keto food categories, but I recommend downloading the full Keto Cheat Sheet System. It includes a super detailed printable keto food list with over 100 items, including 2 color-coded pages with net carb counts, along with 6 more pages of keto cheat sheets:

Get The Keto Cheat Sheet System PDF (Only $37)

Electrolyte Basics

Getting enough electrolytes is crucial for anyone, but especially so on a keto diet. The reason is that ketosis has a diuretic effect, which increases excretion of water and electrolytes, especially sodium [ * ]. This is often the cause of the keto flu.

For more details on electrolytes and avoiding keto flu, check out the full keto flu guide here .

The important thing to know about electrolytes is that replenishing them will keep keto flu away and keep your body functioning well. I always recommend an electrolyte drink and whole food sources of anything your body needs before resorting to supplements, so I made a list of what to eat to get each of the 3 major electrolytes – sodium, magnesium and potassium.

Here’s your keto diet cheat sheet for getting electrolytes from food:

Keto Diet Types

People follow a keto lifestyle for different reasons. Some do it just to lose weight, others are after better overall health, increased energy, and reduced inflammation.

Strictly speaking, the defining factor of a keto diet is the metabolic state of ketosis, which is achieved by restricting carbs. However, many people (myself included) also reduce or eliminate processed, inflammatory, or low-nutrient foods.

Below is your keto cheat sheet summary of the different ways that people follow keto. You choose what works best for your goals and lifestyle!

• Strict Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, count all calories and macros, and eat clean, unprocessed foods.
• Lazy Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, and track only net carbs OR eat keto foods without tracking.
• Dirty Keto – Up to 20-30g net carbs daily, with “if it fits your macros” approach including processed foods.
• Low Carb – Up to 50-100g net carbs daily, less strict.

For a more detailed listing of these different types of keto with pros and cons, grab the Easy Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF below!

Want The Keto Cheat Sheet Printable PDF System?

Get all this information and MORE in convenient printer-friendly format – 13 cheat sheet pages you can take with you anywhere or keep in your kitchen, plus 4 recipe cookbooks! Includes:

1. Keto food list (230+ foods) – Super detailed & color-coded, with net carb counts, so you’ll know exactly what to eat.
2. Foods to avoid on keto – Detailed and specific list so that you know exactly what to watch out for.
3. Macros cheat sheet – Explains everything you need to know about macros to succeed on keto.
4. Keto food swaps (60+ swaps) – Covers virtually every food you love, so you don’t have to miss out!
5. Keto meal formula – With specific food ideas, so it’s easy to mix-and-match.
6. Keto flu guide – Understand what it is and exactly how to avoid it.
7. Electrolyte cheat sheet – With whole food ideas + bonus keto tips.
8. Keto Diet Types – Summary of 4 ways to do keto, so you can choose what fits you best.
9. FOUR (4!) Keto Swaps Recipe EBooks – Dozens of recipes to replace bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, desserts, and other carbs you’d otherwise miss.

Get The Printable Keto Cheat Sheet System (75 pages, Only $37!)

Easy Fried Rice

This easy fried rice recipe only takes 15 minutes! Learn how to make fried rice with simple ingredients like oil, peas, carrots, and eggs.

Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera for the full recipe, including tips, step-by-step photos, and storage, or to save it to your account. You can also find it at: https://www.wholesomeyum.com/fried-rice/

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 cup Frozen peas and carrots
• 2 cloves Garlic (optional)
• 2 large Eggs (at room temperature if possible)
• 3 cups Cooked white rice (or cauliflower rice )
• 3 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 2 tsp Toasted sesame oil (optional)
• 1/4 cup Coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
• 1 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste)
• 2 medium Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet , heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the frozen peas and carrots. Saute for about 3 minutes , until soft.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, if using. Saute for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the middle of the skillet and scramble for about 2 minutes , until fully cooked.
5. Add the cooked rice (or cauliflower rice), butter, and coconut aminos or soy sauce. Mix everything together. Cook the fried rice for 3-5 minutes , until warm.
6. Stir in the toasted sesame oil, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

Maya’s Recipe Notes

Serving size: 1 cup

• Tips: Check out my recipe tips above to help you you get the best texture, more flavor, and a fried rice that comes out just right every time.
• Variations: Don’t miss my recipe variations below to help you switch things up with extra protein, different veggies, or fun toppings that make it your own.
• Serving ideas: Take a look at my serving ideas to help you turn this fried rice into a full meal — whether you’re craving chicken, beef, veggies, or something fresh on the side.
• Store: Pop cooled rice in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave if you’re short on time.
• Freeze: Let it cool, then freeze in a bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Note on nutrition info: The nutrition info does not include optional ingredients.

📖 Want more recipes like this? Find this one and many more in my Healthy Ebook Bundle !

I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy .

© Copyright Maya Krampf for Wholesome Yum. Please DO NOT SCREENSHOT OR COPY/PASTE recipes to social media or websites. We’d LOVE for you to share a link with photo instead. :)