This Colorful Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that brings together a vibrant array of fresh vegetables, enhanced with the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish, this stir-fry is highly customizable and can be served on its own, over rice, or with your favorite protein. With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (like canola or sesame)
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, cut into matchstick pieces or finely sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas or green beans
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice all the vegetables: onion, garlic, ginger, bell peppers, carrot, zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas (or green beans). Set aside.
- Warm the oil: In a large frying pan or wok, bring the vegetable oil to medium-high heat.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the sliced onion to the hot skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until softened. Then add the minced garlic and fresh ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables: Add the red and yellow bell peppers, carrot, zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas (or green beans) to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant in color. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Add the sauces and seasonings: Pour in the soy sauce (or tamari), oyster sauce (if using), and rice vinegar (or lime juice). Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are well coated. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Season and garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry for added crunch and garnish.
- Serve: Serve the vegetable stir-fry immediately on its own or over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also pair it with your favorite protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
This quick and easy Vegetable Stir-Fry is a perfect way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The fresh, crunchy vegetables combined with the savory sauce and aromatic spices make for a satisfying dish that’s full of color and nutrition. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein, and enjoy a delicious stir-fry that can be made in under 30 minutes!