Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Classic steak stir fry gets a healthy upgrade with this Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines tender beef strips with vibrant rainbow vegetables, creating a dish that is as colorful as it is delicious. The sauce, which is sugar-free, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly, adds a punch of flavor without sacrificing health. Whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, this stir fry is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and quick preparation time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with colorful vegetables, this stir fry boosts your daily intake of vitamins and minerals.
• Flavor-Packed Sauce: The zesty sauce combines sweet and savory elements that enhance the natural flavors of the beef and veggies.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a customizable meal that suits everyone’s taste.
• Leftover Friendly: Make extra and enjoy tasty leftovers that are easy to store and reheat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry efficiently, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or large wok
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or large wok: Ideal for high-heat cooking, promoting even browning and quick stir frying.
• Whisk: Ensures that your sauce ingredients are well combined for a consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Ingredients

For this Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank) (thinly sliced)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and thinly sliced into 1/4 coins)
• ½ lb asparagus (ends trimmed, sliced into 2 pieces)
• 1 medium red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 6 oz snow peas
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• ¼ c soy sauce (or coconut aminos, or tamari)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 2 tsp sesame oil

How to Make Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Remove the steak from its packaging and pat dry.
2. Place on a plate and transfer to the freezer for about 20–30 minutes until firm.
3. Slice thinly against the grain into strips approximately 1/8 – 1/4 thick.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine:
2. Soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
3. Rice vinegar
4. Fresh orange juice
5. Honey
6. Cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
7. Sesame oil
8. Whisk until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a cast iron skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil until it shimmers.
3. Add the steak strips; season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir fry until charred and medium rare, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Remove steak from skillet using tongs; set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add sliced carrots and asparagus; sauté for about 3 minutes while stirring frequently.
3. Toss in bell peppers and snow peas; continue to stir fry all vegetables for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute while stirring constantly.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

1. Return the cooked steak to the skillet along with the prepared stir fry sauce (whisk again if needed).
2. Stir fry everything together until the sauce thickens and vegetables are bite-tender, about another three minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from heat; stir in sesame seeds.
2. Serve immediately over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
3. Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to four days.

Enjoy your delicious Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry!

How to Serve Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is a colorful and nutritious dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Rice

• White Rice – Fluffy white rice is a classic base that absorbs the stir fry sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
• Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice pairs well with the veggies and beef.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce – Soft leaves provide a fresh crunch and make for easy, hand-held servings.
• Romaine Lettuce – Crisp romaine adds structure and a satisfying crunch for scooping up the stir fry.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles – These gluten-free noodles soak up the flavors of the sauce and add a delightful texture.
• Whole Wheat Noodles – For added nutrition, whole wheat noodles complement the stir fry nicely.

As a Salad Topping

• Mixed Greens – Serve the stir fry over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh twist.
• Spinach or Kale – These leafy greens add nutrients and can be slightly wilted under the warm stir fry.

How to Perfect Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

To ensure your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly Season Your Beef – Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances flavor. A little kosher salt and ground pepper go a long way.
• Slice Meat Thinly – Cutting steak against the grain into thin strips helps achieve tenderness in each bite.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead – Have all veggies chopped and sauces mixed before cooking. This keeps the process quick and efficient.
• High Heat Cooking – Ensure your skillet is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that desirable char on the beef and veggies.
• Keep It Moving – Stir constantly while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking of vegetables.
• Add Sauce Last – Pour in your sauce towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor absorption without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup complements the flavors of your stir fry nicely.
3. Cucumber Salad – Refreshing cucumber salad provides a crunchy contrast to the tender stir fry.
4. Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs makes for an excellent protein-packed side dish.
5. Sautéed Green Beans – Quick sautéed green beans retain their crispness while adding another layer of flavor.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that balances savory notes from the stir fry.
7. Pickled Vegetables – A small serving of pickled vegetables can add tanginess that cuts through richness of beef.
8. Zucchini Noodles – For a light option, zucchini noodles are fun, low-carb alternatives that work beautifully with stir-fried dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the steak can result in a lack of flavor. Take time to marinate your beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance its taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming rather than stir frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Ignoring Vegetable Size: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can affect their cooking time. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly and achieves the right texture.
• Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to prepare all ingredients before starting can make the cooking process chaotic. Have all your veggies chopped and sauce mixed before you heat the pan.
• Using Low Heat: Cooking on low heat may result in soggy vegetables. High heat is essential for perfectly cooked, crisp stir fry.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

• For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add the stir fry and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing the Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken or turkey for beef in this recipe while maintaining great flavor.

What vegetables work best in this stir fry?

Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preferences.

Is Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use coconut aminos or tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

How do I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry offers a delightful blend of flavors and colors that not only makes mealtime exciting but also promotes healthy eating. With its versatility, you can easily swap out vegetables or proteins as per your preference. Don’t hesitate to try this delicious dish tonight!

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Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of our Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for busy weeknights. This quick and easy recipe brings together tender strips of beef with an explosion of colorful vegetables, all coated in a zesty, sugar-free, gluten-free sauce that enhances the natural taste without compromising on health. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that is not only visually appealing but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a customizable dinner that will impress your family or guests. Plus, any leftovers make for a fantastic next-day lunch!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank)
• 2 medium carrots
• ½ lb asparagus
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper
• 6 oz snow peas
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 2 tsp sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the steak by chilling it briefly in the freezer to make slicing easier. Cut into thin strips against the grain.
2. Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, orange juice, honey, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl to create the stir fry sauce.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat and stir fry the steak until charred and cooked to medium rare. Remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, sauté carrots and asparagus for about 3 minutes before adding bell peppers and snow peas; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute. Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce; stir until thickened.
6. Serve immediately over your choice of rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg