Save
This vegetable stir fry has fueled many of our busy weeknights especially during the Daniel Fast when every ingredient matters. Packed with vibrant veggies and a tangy sauce it is quick to make deeply nourishing and never boring. If you want a meal that is both comforting and incredibly healthy you will love this satisfying plant-based skillet.
The first time I made this it was the middle of a cleanse and I needed flavor without compromise. That zesty lemon sauce surprised everyone and now it is in the regular rotation on our table.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen for a pop of green and fiber look for deep green crowns without yellowing
- Bell pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch choose firm and glossy red yellow or orange for color variety
- Carrot: Brings subtle sweetness and vibrant color try to find carrots that are firm and bright
- Zucchini: Adds gentle flavor and soaks up the tangy sauce smaller zucchini tend to be most tender
- Sugar snap peas or green beans: Delivers a crisp bite use whichever looks freshest at the market
- Red onion: Slices give mild heat and color choose ones with smooth shiny skin
- Garlic: Key for its savory punch fresh cloves deliver the best flavor
- Fresh ginger: Adds warmth and freshness pick plump root pieces with minimal wrinkles
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: The sauce base keeps things light and healthy opt for organic if possible
- Coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce: Essential for umami taste and salt balance coconut aminos keeps it soy-free
- Lemon juice: Lifts the whole dish with bright acidity always use juice from fresh lemons
- Maple syrup: Optional for a hint of sweetness select pure maple syrup if using
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional to add gentle heat adjust to your preference
- Salt and black pepper: To bring all the flavors together use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
- Fresh cilantro or parsley: Adds cool freshness and beautiful color go for bright green bunches
- Sesame seeds: Optional for crunch and a bit of nuttiness choose plain or toasted
- Lime wedges: For a juicy finishing zing always use fresh
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Take time to wash peel and slice all vegetables as described. Cutting everything similarly ensures quick even cooking and better texture in every bite.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine the vegetable broth coconut aminos lemon juice and maple syrup if you like a hint of sweetness. Whisk well and taste before adding salt pepper and optional red pepper flakes.
- Heat the Pan:
- Warm a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in two tablespoons of vegetable broth to prevent sticking and keep things oil-free.
- Sauté Onions and Carrots:
- Add the sliced onion and carrot first. Stir them regularly for two to three minutes just until they begin to soften and release aroma. This step draws out sweetness and depth.
- Stir Fry Remaining Veggies:
- Add broccoli bell pepper zucchini and snap peas or beans. Stir fry for seven to eight minutes moving everything constantly for bright color and crisp yet tender veggies.
- Add Garlic and Ginger:
- Toss in garlic and ginger last cooking for just one minute. Stir non-stop until you smell their fragrant aroma which means they have awakened all their flavors.
- Pour Sauce and Finish:
- Drizzle the sauce mixture over all the vegetables. Keep everything moving in the pan until the sauce thickens slightly and the veggies look glossy and are coated throughout two to three minutes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the stir fry from the heat. Sprinkle on the chopped herbs add sesame seeds if you want extra texture and serve hot with fresh lime wedges for a citrusy kick.
Every time I toss in extra ginger it brings back memories of my grandmother who always insisted no stir fry was complete without it. Now that zing is a favorite touch at our family dinners and always sparks conversation around the table.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent dryness. If you plan to freeze portion into individual servings and store for up to three months for easy reheating later.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap in cauliflower or eggplant if you are out of broccoli or zucchini. Tamari can replace coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Add cubes of tofu or tempeh right after step four for extra satisfying protein while keeping everything plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bright stir fry over brown rice quinoa cauliflower rice or rice noodles for a more substantial meal. Add a sprinkle of roasted peanuts or cashews for extra crunch. It pairs well with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Stir fry is rooted in East Asian cooking traditions where high-heat fast cooking preserves the vivid color and crunch of vegetables. In winter try root veggies like daikon or sweet potato. Summer versions shine with fresh green beans zucchini and corn from the gardens.
This is a dish you will want to make again and again for simple plant-powered meals. Let the bright flavors and ease inspire you to keep veggies center stage at your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Which vegetables work best in this stir fry?
Broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and snap peas create a balanced texture and color. Feel free to substitute with seasonal favorites like mushrooms, bok choy, or green beans.
- → How do I enhance the protein content?
Add cubed tofu or tempeh during cooking for extra protein. This works well with the sauce and vegetable mix, providing satisfying substance.
- → Can this be stored and reheated?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with brown rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. A squeeze of lime or extra herbs makes an excellent finishing touch.
- → How spicy is this stir fry?
It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust or omit for a milder flavor. Add extra if you prefer more spice.