Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that brings the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of a garden straight to your plate! This Simple Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights—or any time you crave something light and satisfying. With crisp bell peppers, tender broccoli, and sweet carrots, each bite is a burst of flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it makes a wonderful companion for rice or noodles!
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Allow it to become shimmering and hot, ready for the flavors to meld.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they become fragrant and golden, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- Next, toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, watching as they transform from crisp to tender-crisp, locking in all their vibrant colors and nutrients.
- Once the vegetables are just right, pour in the soy sauce and drizzle with sesame oil. Toss everything together, ensuring each vegetable is evenly coated in the rich, savory sauce.
- Season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to your liking, giving it a final stir for an additional minute to enhance those delicious flavors.
- Serve your beautiful vegetable stir-fry over a generous bed of cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy this colorful dish that’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this stir-fry with your favorite vegetables! Snap peas, baby corn, or zucchini can add even more color and texture. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce. This dish is also fantastic for meal prepping—simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving that delightful crunch in stir-fried vegetables is cooking them quickly over high heat. Make sure to keep the ingredients moving in the pan to avoid steaming them, as we want to preserve that vibrant color and fresh taste. Prepping your ingredients ahead of time will help streamline the cooking process, making it even easier to whip up this stellar dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables can be a great time-saver. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess water in your stir-fry.
How can I add protein to this dish?
To make this dish more filling, consider adding diced tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef. Simply cook the protein in the pan first, then follow with garlic and ginger before adding your vegetables.
Conclusion
This Simple Vegetable Stir-Fry is the epitome of a quick, nourishing meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your home kitchen. So grab your pan, gather those veggies, and create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes!