Italian-Inspired Quick Veggie Stir-Fry
This Italian-Inspired Quick Veggie Stir-Fry transforms your everyday mixed vegetables into a vibrant, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine! With a medley of colorful vegetables sautéed in olive oil and enhanced with balsamic vinegar and savory cheese, this easy-to-make stir-fry is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish to complement any meal, this versatile recipe allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a fantastic way to reduce food waste while enjoying a delicious meal.
N/A
Servings
58
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
onion
1/2 (sliced into half moons)
carrots
2 (sliced)
bell pepper
1/2 (sliced)
broccoli florets
2 cups (none)
zucchini
1 (sliced)
mushroom
1 cup (quartered)
chicken bouillon
1 teaspoon (none)
water
1/4 cup (none)
balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons (none)
Italian Romano cheese or Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon (none)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your wok or a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot.
2
Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
3
Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced onion, carrots, bell pepper, broccoli florets, zucchini, and quartered mushrooms all at once.
4
Stir-fry the mixture for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are vibrant and slightly tender but still crisp.
5
Sprinkle the chicken bouillon over the vegetables and add the balsamic vinegar and water for extra flavor.
6
Quickly cover the skillet with a lid and let the vegetables steam for an additional 1-2 minutes, which will help them cook through without losing their crunch.
7
Remove the lid and season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to taste, tossing everything well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
8
Finally, sprinkle the Italian Romano or Parmesan cheese over the top, allowing it to melt slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm!
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
6.7g
Carbs
1.3g
Protein
1.7g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Italian-Inspired Quick Veggie Stir-Fry?
It is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines a variety of fresh vegetables with Mediterranean accents like balsamic vinegar and Romano cheese.
Is this stir-fry recipe healthy?
Yes, it is packed with nutrient-dense vegetables, low in calories, and uses heart-healthy olive oil.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 58 calories.
What vegetables are included in this recipe?
The recipe calls for onion, carrots, bell pepper, broccoli florets, zucchini, and mushrooms.
Can I use frozen vegetables for this stir-fry?
While fresh vegetables provide the best crunch, you can use frozen ones; just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry first.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is a great low-carb option with only 6.7g of carbohydrates per serving.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative, and ensure the bouillon is vegetable-based.
What kind of oil should I use?
Olive oil is recommended to maintain the Italian-inspired flavor profile.
Do I need a wok to make this dish?
No, a large skillet will work perfectly if you do not have a wok.
How long does the cooking process take?
The actual stir-frying and steaming takes about 5 to 7 minutes total.
What does balsamic vinegar add to the dish?
It provides a tangy depth and a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the sautéed vegetables.
Can I add meat to this stir-fry?
Absolutely! Sliced chicken, shrimp, or steak can be added; just cook the meat before adding the vegetables.
Why do the vegetables need to be steamed briefly?
A quick 1-2 minute steam helps the denser vegetables like carrots and broccoli cook through while remaining crisp.
What is a good substitute for Romano cheese?
Parmesan cheese is an excellent substitute if Romano is unavailable.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is gluten-free as long as you use a bouillon and balsamic vinegar that are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?
Yes, you can slice and chop all the vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What should I serve with this stir-fry?
It serves well as a side dish for grilled meats or can be served over pasta or quinoa for a full meal.
Can I use different vinegars?
Red wine vinegar can work, but balsamic is preferred for its unique sweetness.
How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming mushy?
Ensure the pan is very hot before adding the vegetables and avoid over-steaming them.
What if I do not have chicken bouillon?
You can substitute it with vegetable bouillon or a half-teaspoon of salt and some dried Italian herbs.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Fresh basil or parsley added at the end would be a wonderful addition.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the bright colors and mild savory flavor of the cheese make it appealing to children.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 2.5g of fat.
How much fiber does this dish provide?
This stir-fry provides 1.7g of fiber per serving.
Does this recipe contain much protein?
It contains a modest 1.3g of protein per serving.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
You can, though olive oil is better for the high heat used in stir-frying.
How should I slice the onion?
The recipe suggests slicing the onion into half moons for even cooking.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding minced garlic during the last minute of stir-frying will add a great aroma.
Is this dish Mediterranean?
It is Italian-inspired, utilizing Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Romano cheese.