Basic Vegetarian Stir Fry Recipe for Quick Healthy Meals

Stir fry is one of the quickest and most versatile meals you can make, especially when you want something delicious and wholesome without turning on the oven. This basic vegetarian stir fry recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

It’s packed with vibrant vegetables, bold flavors, and a touch of savory goodness that makes every bite satisfying. Whether you’re rushing through a busy weeknight or looking for a healthy lunch, this recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition and taste.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste and enjoy a colorful plate every time.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to create a flavorful vegetarian stir fry that’s both healthy and comforting. From the essential ingredients and equipment to step-by-step instructions and handy tips, we’ll guide you through making this quick meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

If you love simple vegetable dishes with bold flavors, don’t miss our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals for more inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of fresh vegetables cooked to perfection with minimal fuss. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
• Highly Customizable: Use any vegetables you love or have on hand.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Plant-Based Protein: Tofu or tempeh can be added for extra protein.
• Flavorful Sauce: A simple soy-ginger-garlic sauce that ties everything together perfectly.
• Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well and reheats beautifully for lunches.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas or green beans
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for sauce thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Equipment

• Large wok or deep skillet: For even heat distribution and quick stir frying
• Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl: To prepare the sauce
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring
• Small bowl: For mixing the cornstarch slurry

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables as described above. Keep them ready near your cooking station because stir frying is fast!
2. Make the sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Heat the wok or skillet: Place your wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Let it heat up until it starts to shimmer, but not smoke.
4. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
5. Add the onion: Toss in the sliced onion and stir fry for 1-2 minutes until it starts to soften.
6. Add firmer vegetables: Add the carrot, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Stir fry for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
7. Add softer vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Stir fry for another 2-3 minutes until all vegetables are tender-crisp.
8. Pour in the sauce: Give the prepared sauce a quick stir and pour it over the vegetables. Toss to coat evenly.
9. Thicken the sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry and drizzle it into the wok while stirring. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
10. Season and finish: Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Turn off the heat.
11. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the stir fry. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Tips & Variations

“To achieve the perfect stir fry texture, keep the heat high and move quickly! Overcrowding the pan will cause veggies to steam instead of sear.”

Feel free to swap or add any vegetables you like. Snow peas, baby corn, zucchini, or bok choy work wonderfully.

For added protein, toss in some cubed tofu or tempeh—just stir fry them first until golden and set aside before cooking the veggies.

If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce when adding the aromatics. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top just before serving.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian dishes? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat or try the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to complement your meals.

Nutrition Facts

*Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or fluffy quinoa for a wholesome meal. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside a green salad.

Try rolling the stir fry inside warm tortillas for a quick veggie wrap, or serve it as a side dish with dumplings or spring rolls for a fun Asian-inspired meal. If you’re in the mood for noodles, toss the vegetables with cooked soba or rice noodles and a splash of extra soy sauce.

Conclusion

This basic vegetarian stir fry recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a colorful, nutritious meal with minimal effort. Its flexibility makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a quick, healthy dish.

The fresh vegetables, combined with the savory sauce and aromatic garlic and ginger, create a vibrant flavor profile that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Whether you stick to the recipe or experiment with different vegetables and proteins, this stir fry will never disappoint. To keep your recipe collection diverse, explore other delicious options like our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, plant-powered meals!

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