Basic Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that you can whip up any day of the week? A basic vegetable stir fry is the perfect solution!

This colorful dish is packed with fresh veggies, vibrant flavors, and a satisfying crunch that’ll leave you feeling nourished and energized. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow and incredibly versatile.

It’s a fantastic way to use up any vegetables you have on hand and customize to your taste preferences.

In just under 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering stir fry that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. Plus, it’s a great base recipe that you can build on by adding your favorite proteins, sauces, or spices.

Keep reading for the full recipe, handy tips, and some serving ideas that will turn your vegetable stir fry into a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This basic vegetable stir fry recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The stir fry method locks in the freshness, texture, and natural sweetness of the vegetables, giving you a deliciously vibrant dish every time.

Not only is it healthy and packed with vitamins, but it’s also wonderfully flexible. You can use any mix of your favorite vegetables, tailor the seasoning to your liking, and even add proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp.

It’s a fantastic way to eat more plants and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and light.

If you’re looking for inspiration beyond this recipe, be sure to check out some of our other vegetable-packed dishes like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 small broccoli crown, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (for finishing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening)

Equipment

• Large wok or large non-stick skillet
• Sharp knife for slicing vegetables
• Cutting board
• Small bowl for mixing sauce
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables. Wash and slice all the vegetables as described in the ingredients list. Having everything ready before you start cooking is essential for stir frying.
2. Make the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and cornstarch slurry. Stir well and set aside.
3. Heat the wok. Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom.
4. Add aromatics. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.
5. Cook the vegetables. Add the carrots and broccoli first, stir-fry for 2 minutes since they take longer to cook. Then add the bell pepper, snap peas, zucchini, and mushrooms. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking.
6. Add the sauce. Pour the soy sauce mixture over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Finish with green onions and sesame oil. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions and drizzle the toasted sesame oil on top for extra flavor.
8. Season and serve. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations

Tip: High heat is key for a great stir fry. Make sure your pan is hot before adding veggies to get that perfect sear and keep the vegetables crisp.

Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping in any vegetables you love or have on hand. Try adding snap peas, baby corn, bok choy, or even leafy greens like spinach towards the end of cooking.

For a protein boost, toss in cubed tofu, tempeh, or cooked chicken strips.

If you prefer a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha sauce while cooking. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

For more delicious and easy plant-based recipes that are perfect for busy days, explore our Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight and Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This basic vegetable stir fry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal.

For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice or quinoa.

Want to turn this into a heartier dish? Add a fried or scrambled egg on top, or serve alongside your favorite protein like grilled tofu or shrimp.

You can also toss the stir fry with cooked noodles for a satisfying stir-fried noodle meal.

For a fresh crunch, garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright finishing touch.

Conclusion

Simple, flavorful, and packed with goodness, this basic vegetable stir fry recipe is a kitchen staple you’ll love coming back to time and time again. It’s a nutritious, easy-to-make dish that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or quality.

Plus, its versatility means you can always mix and match your favorite vegetables and sauces to keep things exciting.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this stir fry is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious textures. Don’t forget to explore more exciting vegetable recipes like our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or the indulgent Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious to round out your cooking repertoire.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, healthy stir fry creation!

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