As I stood in my kitchen, the aromatic dance of garlic and caramelizing vegetables filled the air, reminding me of the evenings spent exploring culinary dreams. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Healthy Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry with Homemade Sauce—your new go-to recipe for busy weeknights! Packed with vibrant carrots, crisp asparagus, and succulent steak, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your meal prep stress-free and quick. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a gluten-free and refined sugar-free delight that the whole family will love. Imagine savoring each colorful bite, knowing it’s wholesome and nourishing. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey with this scrumptious stir fry?
Why is this Extra Veggie Stir Fry a Must-Try?
Health-Conscious: This dish is gluten-free and refined sugar-free, ensuring you indulge without compromising on nutrition.
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll serve a meal that easily becomes part of your weeknight routine.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant mix of carrots, asparagus, and peppers not only pleases the eyes but also delivers a variety of flavors and textures.
Versatile Base: Enjoy it over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice and pair with a fresh green salad for added nutrition.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the vegetables or protein, just like in my Spicy Chicken Stir recipe, and make it your own!
Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry Ingredients
For the Steak
• Steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank) – This is your main protein source; choose well-marbled cuts for extra flavor.
• Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Ground pepper – Freshly ground is preferable for an aromatic touch.
• Olive oil – Perfect for sautéing; avocado oil is a great substitute if preferred.
For the Vegetables
• Garlic (minced) – Adds a wonderful aromatic flavor; use fresh for the best results.
• Carrots (thinly sliced) – They provide sweetness and crunch; any variety works well.
• Asparagus (sliced) – Fresh is best; trim the ends before slicing for optimal texture.
• Red and yellow bell peppers (thinly sliced) – These add a sweet flavor and vibrant color; feel free to swap with zucchini if desired.
• Snow peas – They give a lovely crunch and sweetness; snap peas work in a pinch.
• Sesame seeds – Great for garnish and flavor; toast them for an extra nutty taste.
For the Stir Fry Sauce
• Soy sauce, coconut aminos, or tamari – This forms the base flavor; ensure you choose gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos for this Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry.
• Rice vinegar – Adds a nice tang; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
• Fresh orange juice – This lends a sweetness and acidity; lemon juice is an acceptable alternative as well.
• Honey – A natural sweetener; omit it for a sugar-free version or swap for maple syrup.
• Cornstarch or arrowroot powder – Use to thicken the sauce to your liking.
• Sesame oil – Provides depth of flavor; optional but recommended for that classic stir fry taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry
Step 1: Chill and Slice the Steak
Begin by placing your steak in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm it up for easier slicing. Once chilled, remove the steak and use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain into thin strips, around ¼ inch thick. This technique will ensure each piece remains tender during cooking.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Stir Fry Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh orange juice, honey, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined; the cornstarch should be fully dissolved. Set the bowl aside for later use in your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry.
Step 3: Sauté the Steak
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced steak, seasoning it with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir-fry the steak for 3–4 minutes until the meat is browned and just cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil if needed, then toss in the thinly sliced carrots and asparagus. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch. Next, add the red and yellow bell peppers and snow peas, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until all vegetables are vibrant and tender.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and stir for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Then return the cooked steak to the skillet and pour the stir fry sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the steak and veggies, ensuring even distribution of flavors in your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness and the vegetables are tender-crisp, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish, adding both flavor and texture. Serve your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry hot over jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, making sure to enjoy the colorful medley of flavors.
Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this stir fry your own with these tasty suggestions!
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Chicken Swap: Replace steak with diced chicken breast for a lighter protein option that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully.
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Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian version, substitute steak with firm tofu, pressed and cubed. This adds a delightful texture and absorbs the savory sauce wonderfully.
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Broccoli Bonus: Add fresh or steamed broccoli florets for an extra nutritious boost and vibrant color that perfectly complements the stir fry.
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Heat It Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to liven up the dish, adding a spicy kick that’ll awaken your taste buds.
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Zoodles Delight: Swap traditional rice or noodles with spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option. It absorbs the sauce beautifully and adds a fresh crunch.
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Sweet and Sour Twist: For a unique flavor, mix in some pineapple chunks during cooking. The sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory elements of the stir fry.
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Asian Fusion: Try adding in some wonton wrappers cut into strips for a fun crunch, reminiscent of classic Chinese recipes. Pair it with some Cilantro Lime Steak for a flavor adventure.
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Mix-Up Veggies: Feel free to swap in whatever vegetables strike your fancy, like bell peppers, snap peas, or even leftover roasted veggies from last night’s dinner, similar to my Roasted Chickpeas Veggie recipe. Their variety adds personality and nutrition.
Expert Tips for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry
Chill for Precision: Make sure to chill your steak before slicing it, as this makes cutting thin strips much easier and ensures tenderness.
Avoid Sogginess: Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing steak and vegetables; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
Quick Cooking Method: Stir-frying is all about high heat and speed. Keep the ingredients moving to prevent steaming and lock in those delicious flavors.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and seasonal veggies not only elevate the taste but enhance the nutritional value of your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry.
Customize with Ease: Don’t hesitate to mix and match veggies based on what’s in season or available, making it your own while maintaining that healthy twist!
Make Ahead Options
These Healthy Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can slice the steak and store it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables a day in advance and keep them refrigerated to maintain their crispness. The stir fry sauce can also be prepared ahead of time; just store it in a sealed jar for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat your skillet, sauté the steak and veggies, then add the prepped sauce, and voila—dinner is served with minimal effort while still being just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the veggies crisp and the beef tender by not leaving it out for too long.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain quality.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.
What to Serve with Healthy Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry
Elevate your weeknight dinner by pairing this colorful stir fry with delicious sides that complement its vibrant flavors and textures.
- Jasmine Rice: The subtle sweetness and fluffy texture of jasmine rice create a perfect base for soaking up the savory stir fry sauce.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice adds a light, nutritious touch while still allowing the flavors of the steak and veggies to shine.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette introduces a bright crunch, balancing the dish’s warmth and heartiness while adding a nutritional boost.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli complements the stir fry’s rich flavors with its earthiness, and it’s packed with vitamins for an added health benefit.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles bring a refreshing bite that echoes the stir fry’s flavor profile while providing a satisfying contrast to the tender beef.
- Mango Chutney: A side of mango chutney adds a sweet, fruity twist that enhances the flavors in the stir fry, creating an unexpected and delightful balance to your meal.
Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best steak for the stir fry?
Absolutely! For a tender and flavorful result, I recommend choosing well-marbled cuts such as sirloin, skirt, or flank steak. These cuts have a good balance of fat and meat, enhancing the overall taste of your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry. Always look for bright red color without dark spots that indicate age.
How should I store leftovers of my Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain the quality of the steak and vegetables, make sure they cool completely before storing. If you’re planning to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze my Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! To do so, let your stir fry cool completely after cooking. Pack the dish into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and you can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat.
What if my stir fry sauce is too thin?
Don’t worry, very common! If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, here’s a step-by-step solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with 1 tablespoon of cold water in a separate bowl. Stir it into your stir fry while it’s cooking, and allow it to simmer for another minute or two. This should help your sauce reach the perfect consistency!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is gluten-free if you use tamari or coconut aminos in place of traditional soy sauce. For those with a refined sugar intolerance, simply omit the honey or substitute it with a sugar-free alternative like maple syrup. Just be cautious with any added vegetables that may trigger allergies or sensitivities, and customize as needed!
Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry: A Flavorful Healthy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chill and slice the steak by placing it in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh orange juice, honey, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Sauté the steak in olive oil over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes until browned, then set aside.
- Cook the carrots and asparagus in the same skillet for about 3 minutes, then add bell peppers and snow peas, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
- Combine everything by adding minced garlic and cooked steak, pouring the sauce over the mixture, and stirring for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
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