Dinner

Vegetable Stir Fry

Name: Vegetable Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, thinly sliced; 1 cup snow peas; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening); 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Bysarra September 10, 2025

Jump to Recipe

A vibrant and wholesome dish, vegetable stir fry is quick, colorful, and packed with nutrients. This versatile recipe combines crisp-tender vegetables with a savory sauce, creating a meal that can be served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own. It is a perfect option for busy weeknights, offering both speed and flavor without compromising on nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
A healthy, plant-based option loaded with vitamins and fiber
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Pairs well with rice, noodles, or quinoa
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Broccoli florets
Carrots
Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
Snap peas
Mushrooms
Onion
Garlic
Fresh ginger
Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Sesame oil
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare all vegetables by washing and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add harder vegetables like broccoli and carrots first, cooking for 3–4 minutes.
Stir in softer vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender.
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch slurry (if using).
Pour the sauce into the pan and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add protein such as tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef for a heartier meal
Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free version
Use zucchini, asparagus, or baby corn for added variety
Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for a tangy finish
Serve over noodles for a stir-fry noodle dish instead of rice

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of some vegetables may soften after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this stir fry ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture.

What is the best oil for stir frying?

High-heat oils such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are best for stir frying.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp?

Do not overcook the vegetables; stir fry them quickly over high heat until they are just tender.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.

Is vegetable stir fry healthy?

Yes, it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and can be made low in sodium by adjusting the sauce.

Can I add noodles to this dish?

Yes, you can toss cooked noodles directly into the stir fry with the sauce.

Can I freeze vegetable stir fry?

Yes, but note that some vegetables may lose their crispness after thawing.

What protein goes well with this stir fry?

Tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef are excellent options to complement the vegetables.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but cook them directly from frozen and reduce the sauce slightly since they release water.

What can I serve with vegetable stir fry?

It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Vegetable stir fry is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish that can be tailored to suit your preferences. Whether served alone, over rice, or paired with your favorite protein, it makes for a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and adaptable to any diet. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, this recipe is a staple worth adding to your weekly rotation.

sarra