If you’re looking for a vibrant, healthy, and truly satisfying dish to brighten up your weeknight dinners, this Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with colorful bell peppers, crisp broccoli, sweet carrots, and crunchy snow peas all brought together with a savory blend of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, this stir fry is a quick celebration of fresh flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned veggie lover or just dipping your toes into plant-based meals, this recipe promises a delightful, fuss-free cooking experience and a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity, using just a handful of ingredients that each bring something special to the table. These fresh veggies add color and crunch, while the garlic, ginger, and sauces create a harmonious depth of flavor with every bite.
- 2 cups Bell Peppers, sliced: A mix of red, yellow, and green for a stunning, colorful presentation and sweet crispness.
- 1 cup Broccoli florets: Bite-sized pieces that add a hearty texture and vibrant green tone.
- 1 cup Carrots, sliced: Cut into thin matchsticks to provide sweetness and a slight crunch.
- 1 cup Snow Peas: Their snap is crucial for that unbeatable stir fry crunch.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Finely chopped to infuse a fragrant and savory base flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, grated: Adds a warm, slightly spicy note that lifts the entire dish.
- 3 tablespoons Low-sodium Soy Sauce: Provides umami richness without overwhelming saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: Brings a nutty aroma that finishes the dish perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Ideal for stir frying without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- 3 stalks Green Onions, chopped: Used as a fresh, bright garnish to crown the dish.
How to Make Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
Wash all your vegetables thoroughly, then slice the bell peppers into thin strips, cut broccoli into bite-sized florets, slice the carrots into thin matchsticks, and trim the ends off the snow peas. Having your veggies prepped and ready makes the cooking process quick and seamless.
Step 2: Mince Garlic and Grate Ginger
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves so they release their full aroma quickly, then grate the ginger to add that perfect burst of warmth and zing that every great stir fry needs.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. This will create the perfect hot surface to quickly cook your vegetables and preserve their crispness.
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step infuses the oil, giving every bite of your stir fry a delicious base flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Carrots
Next, toss in the carrot matchsticks. Cook them for about two minutes, allowing them to soften just slightly while keeping a pleasant crunch that adds texture variety.
Step 6: Add Broccoli and Bell Peppers
Stir in the broccoli florets and bell pepper strips. Sauté everything together for three to four minutes, gently softening these vegetables while preserving their color and nutritional value.
Step 7: Toss in Snow Peas
Add the snow peas last to keep their crisp snap. Cook for another two minutes, stirring occasionally to combine all the veggies.
Step 8: Drizzle Soy Sauce
Pour the low-sodium soy sauce evenly over the vegetables. This adds that irresistible umami kick and a touch of savory sweetness that lifts the flavors beautifully.
Step 9: Add Sesame Oil and Toss
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry, then toss everything together for another minute to blend the nutty aroma throughout the dish perfectly.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Remove the stir fry from the heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped green onions on top. These add a lovely fresh crunch and vibrant green color, finishing your dish beautifully.
How to Serve Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe even more, add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add a bright, refreshing twist.
Side Dishes
This vegetable stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or brown rice, but you can also serve it alongside quinoa or fluffy noodles for a more filling meal. A light miso soup or simple dumplings make lovely accompaniments too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your stir fry in colorful bell pepper halves or over a bed of leafy greens for a pretty and healthy presentation. Using bamboo steamers or serving it family-style in a large platter invites communal sharing and adds to the fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables maintain their crunch well, making quick reheats just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
While freezing stir fry isn’t typically ideal because of the vegetables’ texture, you can freeze the cooked vegetables without sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then quickly stir fry again with fresh sauce for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a wok or skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent steaming and sogginess. Adding a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil while reheating helps refresh the flavors and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh for this stir fry?
Yes, you can, but fresh vegetables yield the best texture and flavor in this Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe. Frozen veggies tend to release more water and may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid sogginess.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This recipe uses only plant-based ingredients and oils, making it a perfect vegan option that’s rich in flavor and nutrition.
Can I add protein to this stir fry?
Definitely! Tofu, tempeh, or cooked chicken or shrimp make great additions. Add your protein early in the cooking process or cook separately and combine at the end to keep everything perfectly cooked.
What can I substitute for soy sauce if I have a soy allergy?
Try using coconut aminos, which is a soy-free, gluten-free alternative that still offers a similar savory flavor profile for your stir fry.
How spicy is this Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe?
This basic version is mild, focusing on fresh and savory flavors. If you like heat, feel free to add chili flakes, fresh sliced chilies, or a dash of hot sauce during the stir-fry process.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about a Simple Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe that comes together quickly, tastes incredible, and fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. It’s a perfect dish for busy days, colorful meals, or anyone wanting to celebrate the natural goodness of fresh vegetables. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite go-to that you’ll want to make again and again.
