Easy Vegetable Stir Fry – Quick & Flavorful

Easy Vegetable Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a fast, fresh way to enjoy your favorite veggies, this easy vegetable stir fry recipe is your perfect go-to. Packed with colorful vegetables and a simple savory sauce, it’s a nutritious option that’s ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers bold flavor without fuss.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in any vegetables you have on hand. It’s vegan, gluten-friendly if you choose the right soy sauce, and full of vitamins and fiber. The stir fry cooks up fast, making it ideal for busy evenings when time is tight but you want something wholesome and delicious. Plus, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (substitute garlic powder if needed)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced (use any color bell pepper)
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets (cauliflower as alternative)
• 1 cup snap peas (or green beans)
• 1 carrot, julienned (or thinly sliced)
• 1 small onion, sliced (white, yellow, or red)
• 3 green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness and depth)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds nutty aroma)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot.
2. Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, carrot, and onion to the pan.
4. Stir-fry the vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes. Keep stirring frequently until they are crisp-tender but still vibrant in color.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together so the veggies are coated evenly in the sauce.
6. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serve the stir fry with jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a complete meal. For more easy dinner ideas, check out Easy Weeknight Dinners or explore flavorful vegetarian mains like our Vegetarian Chickpea Curry.

For inspiration from top culinary pros, visit Food Network to see expert vegetable stir fry variations.

Expert Tips

Start with a very hot pan to get a good sear on the vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Prep all veggies before heating the pan since stir frying moves quickly. Use a wok or large skillet with high sides for easy stirring.

Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed—to avoid steaming instead of stir frying. Add sauces gradually to adjust seasoning to your taste and prevent overpowering the veggies.

Make-ahead tip: chop your vegetables and mix the sauce in advance to save time on busy days. Stir fry just before serving for freshest results.

Storage

Store leftover vegetable stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations

• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan. Just check your hoisin sauce to ensure it’s vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and verify the hoisin sauce is gluten-free or omit it.
• Dairy-Free: The recipe contains no dairy ingredients.
• Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
• Protein Boost: Toss in cubes of tofu, tempeh, or cooked edamame for added protein.

FAQ

What vegetables work best in an easy vegetable stir fry?

Bright, crisp vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and onions are ideal because they cook quickly and retain texture.

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes, prep the vegetables and sauce in advance, then stir fry just before serving for best freshness.

Is this easy vegetable stir fry healthy?

Absolutely! It’s loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, plus it’s low in calories and fat when cooked with minimal oil.

How do I avoid soggy vegetables in my stir fry?

Make sure your pan is very hot and don’t overcrowd it. Stir fry quickly and avoid adding too much sauce at once.

What can I serve with easy vegetable stir fry?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles make perfect bases. You can also serve it with lettuce wraps or on its own for a light meal.

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