Golden Vegetable Stir-Fry 🥕🌶️

This vibrant vegetable stir-fry is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrients. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option, it can be customized with your choice of seasonal vegetables. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a delicious and filling meal! 🍚🍜

Ingredients

For the stir-fry

• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• Cooked protein (chicken, tofu, shrimp)
• Chopped green onions
• A splash of hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

🔥 Make sure the oil is hot before adding the vegetables to get a nice sear and maintain crunchiness!

2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, stirring quickly to avoid burning.

3. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender-crisp.

🥦 If you prefer your vegetables softer, you can add them in stages based on their cooking times (e.g., add carrots first, followed by bell peppers).

4. Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing well to ensure all the vegetables are coated.

5. Stir in any additional protein if using, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Simply skip the protein or replace it with your favorite plant-based option.
• Spicy: Add chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil for a kick.
• Savory sauce: Mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty sauce that pairs perfectly with the vegetables.
• Substitutions: Feel free to use frozen vegetables if fresh ones aren’t available—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tips

• Meal prep: Chop veggies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This makes it super easy to whip up this dish on a busy night! 🥗
• Serving suggestion: Serve with a side of spring rolls or a simple salad to round out your meal.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.

Enjoy this colorful and nutritious stir-fry that will brighten up your day and keep your taste buds dancing! 🎉🥡