This simple, humble vegetable stir-fry is a perfect way to celebrate the natural flavors of fresh, seasonal vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, noodles, or even as a side dish to complement a protein. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this dish proves that the best meals don’t always require extravagant ingredients. Sometimes, all you need is a little bit of seasoning and love to make humble vegetables shine.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil of choice)
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash and cut all vegetables as directed, making sure they’re roughly similar in size for even cooking.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the carrot slices to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes. Then, add the bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant and crisp.
- Season the Stir-Fry: Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) over the vegetables. Add salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). Stir well to coat the veggies evenly in the seasonings.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds for a touch of crunch. Serve the stir-fry warm, either on its own or with a side of rice or noodles.
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Tips:
- Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have available. Mushrooms, baby corn, or spinach are great additions.
- For a protein boost, you can add tofu, tempeh, or a handful of cashews to the stir-fry.
- To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
This stir-fry is a reminder that the simplest meals, made with love and fresh ingredients, are often the most satisfying. Enjoy!
