Stir-fried vegetables are a vibrant and nutritious way to enjoy a medley of fresh produce with bold flavors and delightful textures. This quick cooking method locks in the natural crunch and color of the veggies, making it a perfect weekday meal or a side dish to complement your favorite protein.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this stir fried veggies recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables and sauces.
In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up a colorful plate filled with a variety of vegetables that are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This recipe highlights the beauty of simplicity and freshness, making it a go-to option for healthy eating that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Read on to discover why this stir fried veggies recipe will quickly become a staple in your home cooking routine, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to keep things exciting!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir fried veggies recipe is a favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly fast and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a healthy meal without the fuss.
The high heat cooking method ensures your vegetables retain their vibrant colors, crunch, and nutrients.
Another reason to love this recipe is its flexibility. You can use almost any vegetables you have on hand, from bell peppers and broccoli to snap peas and carrots.
It’s a great way to clear out your fridge while still creating something tasty.
Finally, the flavor profile is fresh and bright, enhanced by a simple soy sauce-based stir fry sauce with a hint of garlic and ginger. This makes it a perfect complement to rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps or bowls.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut oil, for high heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large wok or skillet – essential for high-heat cooking and tossing veggies easily
- Sharp chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables quickly and safely
- Cutting board – to prep all your ingredients
- Mixing bowl – to combine sauce ingredients
- Measuring spoons – for precise sauce measurements
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and tossing
Instructions
- Prep all your vegetables by washing, peeling (if necessary), and cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth stir fry experience.
- Mix the stir fry sauce in a bowl by whisking together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the cornstarch-water mixture if using. Set aside.
- Heat the wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow the oil to get hot enough to shimmer but not smoke.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and broccoli first since they take longer to cook. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes, keeping the vegetables moving in the pan.
- Introduce the bell peppers, snap peas, zucchini, and mushrooms to the wok. Continue stir frying for another 3-4 minutes until all vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and glazes the veggies.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped green onions just before removing from heat.
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
“The key to perfect stir fried veggies is high heat and quick cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan or the veggies will steam instead of fry.”
Feel free to swap out or add any vegetables you prefer – baby corn, bok choy, water chestnuts, or even kale can be delicious additions. For a protein boost, toss in some cubed tofu or cooked shrimp during the final steps.
Want to add some heat? Include a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili garlic sauce to the stir fry sauce.
For a nutty twist, add a handful of chopped cashews or peanuts just before serving.
To keep it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a soy-free version, try coconut aminos as a substitute.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150-180 kcal |
Protein | 3-4 g |
Carbohydrates | 15-20 g |
Fiber | 5-6 g |
Fat | 8-10 g |
Sodium | 400-500 mg (varies with soy sauce brand) |
Vitamin A | 70% DV |
Vitamin C | 80% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This stir fried veggies dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside noodles like soba or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired feast.
For a heartier option, add grilled tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein on the side. It also makes a fantastic filling for lettuce wraps or as a topping for baked potatoes or grain bowls.
Looking for more vegetable-centric recipes? Check out these delicious ideas:
- Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals
- Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals
- Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
Conclusion
Stir fried veggies are the ultimate quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a colorful plate packed with nutrients and vibrant tastes.
This recipe offers endless customization opportunities to suit your preferences and pantry supplies.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this stir fry will satisfy your craving for a nutritious and delicious vegetable-packed meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables, sauces, and add-ins to keep it fresh and exciting.
For more inspiration on wholesome, veggie-forward cooking, explore our collection of recipes such as Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
Happy cooking and enjoy your stir fried veggies!
📖 Recipe Card: Stir Fried Veggies Recipe
Description: A quick and healthy stir fry packed with colorful vegetables. Perfect as a side dish or light main course.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, carrot, and zucchini.
- Stir fry vegetables for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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