Lemon Garlic Vegetable Stir-Fry
A vibrant and zesty stir-fry packed with crisp broccoli, sweet carrots, and colorful bell peppers. The simple lemon-garlic sauce comes together in minutes, making this a perfect healthy weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the vegetables
- b.Wash and chop all your vegetables as noted in the ingredient list.
- c.Keep them in separate bowls for easy access as they will be added to the pan at different times.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Stir-fry the vegetables
- b.Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the broccoli florets and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to get tender.
- d.Add the sliced bell peppers and snap peas. Continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes. The vegetables should be bright in color and crisp-tender.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add aromatics and seasoning
- b.Push the vegetables to the sides of the pan to create a well in the center.
- c.Add the minced garlic to the center and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Stir the garlic into the vegetables to combine.
- e.Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the vegetables and toss well.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish with lemon and serve
- b.Remove the skillet from the heat.
- c.Pour the fresh lemon juice over the vegetables and add the lemon zest.
- d.Toss everything together one last time.
- e.Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use high heat and cook quickly. This sears the vegetables without making them soggy.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook the vegetables in two batches to ensure they stir-fry rather than steam.
- 3Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a very fast process.
- 4Add the lemon juice off the heat to preserve its fresh, bright flavor and prevent it from becoming bitter.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will soften upon reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas, 1 block of cubed firm tofu, or 1 pound of grilled chicken strips in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
quickQuick
Save time by using a 16-ounce bag of pre-chopped mixed stir-fry vegetables from the grocery store.
ketoKeto
Swap the carrots and snap peas for lower-carb vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, and mushrooms.
healthyHealthy
Add a handful of spinach or kale at the very end of cooking for an extra boost of greens and nutrients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The colorful assortment of vegetables provides a wide range of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C from bell peppers, Vitamin A from carrots, and Vitamin K from broccoli.
Heart Healthy
This recipe is very low in sodium and contains no cholesterol. The focus on fresh vegetables and minimal oil supports cardiovascular health.
Excellent Source of Fiber
The high fiber content from the vegetables aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Supports Immunity
High levels of Vitamin C from the bell peppers and lemon juice help to strengthen the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the variety of vegetables. It's also low in calories, fat, and sodium, making it an excellent choice for a heart-healthy diet.