How to Stir-Fry Vegetables

When it comes to quick and simple side dishes, knowing how to stir-fry vegetables opens up a world of healthy options. Stir-frying is a great way to clean out your fridge and avoid wasting produce. Plus, you can use any spices you like to season your vegetables and pair them with your meal.

Stir-frying is simply cooking food in a skillet with a small amount of oil, tossing it around to get an even cook. The goal is to cook the vegetables until they’re crisp-tender with a slight caramelized color on the edges. Once you master stir-frying, adding healthy ingredients and color to your plates becomes a breeze. Keep reading our simple guide to learn how to stir-fry vegetables and make them a regular part of your meals.

How to Stir-Fry Vegetables

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables and Pan

Cut your vegetables into small pieces. If you’re stir-frying a mix of vegetables, try to cut them into uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Pour a small amount of oil or butter (enough to coat the bottom of the pan) into a wok or large skillet, and heat it over medium to medium-high heat.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Once the pan is hot, add the vegetables in batches. Stir occasionally and cook until they soften and the color deepens slightly.

Step 3: Season the Vegetables and Serve

We love seasoning stir-fried vegetables with salt, pepper, and garlic. Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to complement the dish. For example, a little taco seasoning and lime juice can give the vegetables a lively Mexican twist. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Stir-Fry Vegetables

To avoid overcooking or undercooking, cook vegetables in the order of their cooking time, starting with those that take longer.

• Longer Stir-Frying Time: Carrots, onions, and potatoes

• Medium Stir-Frying Time: Broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers

• Shorter Stir-Frying Time: Mushrooms, tomatoes, and leafy greens

Maximizing Your Stir-Fry Veggies

For the best flavor and nutrients, try to cook vegetables soon after buying them. Frozen vegetables are also a healthy option, as they’re frozen right after harvest to lock in vitamins. If buying canned vegetables, choose those labeled “low-sodium” or “no salt added” to control sodium intake.

Take your stir-fry skills and use them to create delicious meals, from veggie-packed dishes to hearty meals with meat. Our quick stir-fry recipes cover everything from vibrant vegetables to protein-rich dishes, helping you create a flavorful dinner in no time.