Vegetable Stir Fry

Name: Vegetable Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup sliced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup snap peas; 1 small onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Create a vibrant and healthy meal in minutes with this effortless Vegetable Stir Fry recipe. Packed with colorful fresh vegetables and a savory sauce, this dish is perfect for any night of the week. Not only is it gluten-free, but it's also a great way to customize your meal with your favorite ingredients. Perfectly stir-fried for a satisfying crunch, this recipe will become a go-to for quick, nutritious dinners.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2025-12-10T16:34:33.797Z

This recipe brings the vibrant colors and flavors of fresh vegetables to your dinner table in no time. Enjoy a healthy meal that not only fuels your body but also delights your taste buds.

The Benefits of Stir Fry Cooking

Stir frying is a quick and efficient cooking method that retains the nutrients and flavors of vegetables. The high heat ensures that vegetables are cooked rapidly, locking in their color, texture, and nutritional value. This method also allows for a wide variety of ingredients to be used, making it easy to customize your meal according to taste preferences and dietary restrictions.

Another significant benefit of stir frying is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite proteins, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp, for a heartier dish. Plus, the variety of sauces available, from spicy to sweet, ensures that there’s something to satisfy every palate, making stir fry an ideal family meal.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

For the best vegetable stir fry, opt for a mix of colors and textures to create a visually appealing and nutritious dish. Bright greens like broccoli and snap peas not only provide essential vitamins but also add a satisfying crunch. Complement these with colorful bell peppers and carrots for added sweetness and flavor.

Don’t hesitate to explore seasonal vegetables; they often taste better and are more affordable. Incorporating a variety of vegetables ensures a diverse range of nutrients, plus the combination of different textures keeps each bite interesting. Just remember to cut your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry

To achieve the perfect stir fry, it's crucial to keep your ingredients moving. Stirring continuously ensures that everything cooks evenly and prevents burning. Using a high smoke point oil, such as canola or avocado oil, can also make a big difference in achieving that delightful browned flavor without sacrificing health.

Additionally, preparing all your ingredients before cooking—known as mise en place—will make the cooking process smoother and faster. This preparation also allows you to focus on achieving the perfect stir-fry texture without feeling rushed. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your favorite combinations.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to prepare the Vegetable Stir Fry.

Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup snap peas
1 small onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated

Sauce

3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Vegetable Stir Fry.

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and the cornstarch mixture.

Stir Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and stir fry until fragrant.

Add the Remaining Vegetables

Add the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas to the skillet and stir fry for about 5-7 minutes until just tender.

Combine with Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat everything well.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice or noodles, if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and healthy Vegetable Stir Fry!

Serving Suggestions

This Vegetable Stir Fry pairs beautifully with a variety of bases, depending on your dietary preferences. Serve it over brown rice for a wholesome grain option, or opt for quinoa to add a protein boost. For those looking to keep it low-carb, cauliflower rice is an excellent alternative that absorbs the sauce beautifully.

You can also top it with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an added burst of flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds completes the dish, providing both aesthetic appeal and a slight crunch. Don't forget a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing!

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from this Vegetable Stir Fry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a perfect candidate for meal prep, ensuring you have a healthy option on hand for busy days. When reheating, it's best to use a skillet to bring the stir fry back to life rather than a microwave, as this keeps the veggies crisp.

If you're looking for a quick way to reheat, consider adding a splash of water or soy sauce to the pan, which can prevent the vegetables from drying out. Just heat over medium until warm, and enjoy your tasty leftovers without losing that signature crunch.

Nutritional Information

This Vegetable Stir Fry is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the various vegetables contribute to overall health and well-being. For instance, broccoli is known for its high vitamin C content, while carrots are a great source of beta-carotene, which is essential for eye health.

Moreover, the sauce is designed to be low in sugar and sodium, making this stir fry a guilt-free option for dinner. With the flexibility to adjust ingredients based on dietary needs, like using gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe caters to a wide range of nutritional requirements, making it perfect for everyone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with Vegetable Stir Fry?

Serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.