Introduction
The Easy Veggie Stir Fry from Love and Lemons is a quick and healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with vibrant vegetables and a flavorful sauce, this recipe is both delicious and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Stir Fry:
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and sliced
– 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
– 3 cups small broccoli florets
– 1 cup sugar snap peas
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 3 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
Stir Fry Sauce:
– ½ cup water
– ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
– 2 garlic cloves, grated
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
6 to 8 minutes
Total Time
16 to 18 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 to 6
This Easy Veggie Stir Fry is not only simple to prepare but also allows a world of culinary creativity. Experiment with different vegetables or add a protein like baked tofu or tempeh for an even heartier meal. Enjoy this wholesome dish over a bed of rice or noodles for a satisfying feast!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
Cook the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the red and yellow bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, sugar snap peas, and carrots. Toss to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the prepared stir fry sauce. Stir and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Serve
Season to taste. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Notes
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like celery, snow peas, green beans, asparagus, napa cabbage, baby corn, or water chestnuts.
Protein Options
You can also include a cooked protein such as baked tofu or tempeh.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.
Cook Techniques
Preparing Stir Fry Sauce
In a bowl, combine ingredients like water, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well mixed to create a flavorful sauce.
Cooking Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, sugar snap peas, and carrots. Toss to combine and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Adding the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the prepared stir fry sauce. Stir frequently and cook until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Serving the Stir Fry
Season the stir fry to taste and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in this stir fry?
Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like celery, snow peas, green beans, asparagus, napa cabbage, baby corn, or water chestnuts.
What protein can I add to the dish?
You can include proteins like baked tofu or tempeh for added nutrition.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Easy Veggie Stir Fry is a quick and healthy meal option that brings together a rainbow of vegetables and a flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking to eat more vegetables or explore new flavor combinations, this stir fry delivers both nutrition and taste in every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Protein Variations
Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef for a protein boost. Alternatively, use baked tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Additional Vegetables
Experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or snap peas for added variety and texture. You can also include leafy greens like spinach or kale.
Grain Options
Serve the stir fry over different grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a nutritious base.
Flavor Twists
Add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving to brighten up the dish.
Spice It Up
For those who enjoy heat, try adding jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the stir fry sauce for an extra kick.
