Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that steal the show — and these Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables are exactly that. Quick, colorful, and absolutely bursting with flavor, they make the perfect side dish (or even a light main!) for any meal. Imagine crisp-tender veggies coated in a glossy, garlicky butter sauce that’s so good, you’ll be tempted to lick the spoon. Whether you’re trying to eat more greens or just want something fast and tasty, trust me — this one’s a keeper.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables

This dish proves that healthy doesn’t have to be boring:

Ridiculously Flavorful: That garlic butter combo is next-level delicious.

Quick and Easy: Done in under 20 minutes — perfect for weeknights.

Flexible: Use whatever veggies you’ve got on hand.

Healthy and Comforting: Light, nutrient-rich, but with that warm, buttery hug.

Perfect Pairing: Goes with everything from grilled meats to rice bowls to noodles.

Ingredients in Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables

Here’s what goes into this vibrant and savory stir-fry:

Mixed Vegetables: Think bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, zucchini, snap peas — anything crisp and colorful.

Butter: The rich, creamy base that brings it all together.

Garlic: Loads of it! Freshly minced for bold flavor.

Olive Oil: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds depth.

Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for bringing out the best in the veggies.

Optional Add-ins: A splash of lemon juice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a dash of soy sauce for an umami twist.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get sizzling!

Prep Your Veggies

Wash and chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Try to keep them fairly uniform so they cook evenly.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or wok, heat a bit of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until melted and hot.

Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Don’t let it burn!

Add the Vegetables

Toss in the chopped veggies. Stir-fry for 5–8 minutes, depending on the vegetables. Cook until tender-crisp — you want them to keep a little bite!

Season and Finish

Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a touch of soy sauce if desired. Give everything one last stir to coat.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, as a side or over rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a quick, wholesome meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 160

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables

These veggies are the ultimate sidekick, but they’re versatile enough to shine on their own:

• With Grilled Chicken or Steak: A perfect contrast to hearty proteins.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Makes it a complete, satisfying meal.
• Tossed with Pasta: Add some grated Parmesan and boom — a veggie-loaded pasta dish.
• In Wraps or Grain Bowls: Great for lunch meal prep.
• On Their Own: With that buttery garlic coating, they’re more than enough.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Too many veggies at once = steaming, not stir-frying.
• Cook harder veggies first: Carrots and broccoli take longer than zucchini or bell peppers.
• Use high heat: It helps veggies stay crisp and colorful.
• Try flavored butter: Garlic herb or lemon butter takes this up a notch.
• Add crunch: Top with toasted nuts or seeds for texture.

FAQ Section

Q1: What vegetables work best for this stir-fry?
A1: Broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, mushrooms, carrots, and green beans all work wonderfully.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A2: Totally! Use a plant-based butter or just olive oil for a vegan version.

Q3: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A3: Yes, just thaw and pat them dry to avoid sogginess when stir-frying.

Q4: How do I keep the veggies from getting mushy?
A4: Stir-fry on high heat and don’t overcook — aim for tender-crisp.

Q5: Can I add protein to this dish?
A5: Absolutely! Add tofu, shrimp, chicken, or even chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Q6: Can I make this ahead of time?
A6: Yes, but it’s best fresh. Reheat quickly in a pan or microwave just before serving.

Q7: What’s the best pan to use?
A7: A wok is ideal, but a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet works too.

Q8: How can I add more flavor?
A8: A splash of soy sauce, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or even a little grated Parmesan can boost flavor.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?
A9: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q10: Can I freeze this dish?
A10: It’s not ideal, as the texture of the veggies can get soft. Better to enjoy it fresh or refrigerate for short-term use.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly crave-worthy. They’re buttery, garlicky, and packed with goodness — the kind of side dish that somehow ends up stealing the spotlight. Keep this one in your back pocket for nights when you want something fast, fresh, and ridiculously satisfying. Happy stir-frying!

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