How to Make a Delicious and Nutritious Vegetable Stir-Fry

Vegetable stir-fry is one of the most popular recipes not just because it's quick, but also due to its versatility. This dish can be customized with an array of vegetables, making each meal unique while maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Whether you are looking for a hearty vegetarian dinner or a healthy lunch option, vegetable stir-fry ticks all the boxes.

For this recipe, we will use a variety of colorful and nutritious vegetables to create a stir-fry that is both delicious and satisfying. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, which includes preparation and cooking time. This meal serves two people, making it perfect for a quick homemade dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets, bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or your preferred low-sodium option)
• Salt to taste
• Paprika for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Begin by prepping all the vegetables. Slice the red bell pepper, julienne or thinly slice the carrot, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until it’s warm but not smoking. Add minced garlic to the pan; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Once the garlic is soft, add the vegetables one at a time. Start with the bell pepper followed by carrots and then broccoli. Cook each vegetable batch separately so that they maintain their color and texture. Each vegetable should cook for approximately 3-5 minutes.

Mix all the vegetables together once they have cooked thoroughly. Season with soy sauce, salt to taste, and a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Stir everything well before serving immediately to keep the nutrients intact.

Additional Tips

1. Use a variety of vegetables: Feel free to mix and match different types of veggies based on your preferences or what’s available in the market.
2. Fresh vs. Frozen:** Fresh vegetables yield better results when stir-fried, but if you are short on time, frozen vegetables work just as well.
3. Experiment with seasonings: You can replace soy sauce with any other sauce such as teriyaki or oyster sauce to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.