Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe

Sizzling Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe: A Colorful Dinner Win

Whipping up a delectable spicy veggie stir-fry brings excitement to your weeknight dinner routine.

Colorful vegetables dance in a sizzling pan, creating magic with each toss.

Chili peppers and aromatic spices infuse layers of complex flavors that tantalize the palate.

Fresh ingredients become a vibrant canvas for culinary creativity.

Crisp bell peppers, tender zucchini, and crunchy snap peas mingle with savory seasonings.

Quick cooking techniques preserve the vegetables’ natural textures and nutritional value.

You’ll love how this dish comes together in mere minutes, promising a delightful meal that satisfies both hunger and adventurous taste buds.

Get ready to transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

What Goes Into Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry

Noodle Base:
  • Spaghetti: A classic pasta that serves as the foundation for this stir-fry dish.
  • Sesame Oil: Provides a nutty and aromatic flavor to the noodles.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a savory umami taste to the noodle base.
Stir-Fry Vegetables:
  • Onion, Bell Peppers: Offer a sweet and colorful base for the stir-fry.
  • Zucchini: Brings a mild, tender texture to the vegetable mix.
  • Baby Corn, Broccoli: Add crunch and nutritional value to the dish.
  • Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor to the vegetables.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce: Serves as the primary seasoning for the stir-fry sauce.
  • Sherry or Broth: Adds depth and liquid to the sauce.
  • Brown Sugar: Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
  • Cornstarch: Helps to thicken and create a glossy sauce.
  • Sriracha: Introduces a spicy kick to the dish.
  • Ginger: Offers a zesty and warming element to the sauce.
Garnish:
  • Sesame Seeds, Green Onions: Provide a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Peanut Oil: Used for cooking the vegetables and creating a flavorful base.

Steps for Quick and Tasty Stir-Fry Nights

Step 1: Boil Noodle Base

Cook spaghetti in boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and toss with sesame oil and soy sauce in a large bowl.

Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Craft Flavor Bomb Sauce

Whisk together:
  • Soy sauce
  • Sherry
  • Brown sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Sriracha
  • Minced ginger

Let the sauce sit and develop its magical flavors.

Step 3: Awaken the Skillet

Heat peanut oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Toss in onions and bell peppers, creating a colorful vegetable dance for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Infuse Aromatic Layers

Add garlic and stir continuously for 30 seconds to 1 minute, releasing its intense fragrance.

Step 5: Build Vegetable Harmony

Introduce zucchini and cook for 2 minutes.

Add baby corn and broccoli, stirring to create a vibrant vegetable medley.

Step 6: Unleash Sauce Magic

Pour prepared sauce over vegetables, mixing thoroughly.

Let the sauce simmer and coat each vegetable piece for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.

Step 7: Adjust Sauce Consistency

For a lighter sauce, stir in hot water and an extra splash of soy sauce.

Step 8: Serve with Flair

Plate over sesame soy noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Stir-Fry Tips for Heat and Flavor Balance

  • Prep vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the stir-fry.
  • Keep ingredients moving constantly in the wok to prevent burning and maintain vibrant colors and crisp texture.
  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing sriracha amount according to personal heat tolerance.
  • Use fresh vegetables at room temperature for better stir-frying results and faster cooking time.
  • Add protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp if desired for a more substantial meal without changing core cooking technique.

Fresh Stir-Fry Styles to Mix Things Up

  • Protein Power Punch: Replace vegetables with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a protein-packed meal that keeps you full and energized.
  • Asian Mediterranean Mix: Swap sriracha for harissa, add olives and feta cheese, creating a cross-cultural stir-fry experience with tangy Mediterranean flavors.
  • Low-Carb Veggie Rice Bowl: Substitute spaghetti with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for a lighter, low-carbohydrate version that maintains the dish's bold taste.
  • Seasonal Harvest Stir-Fry: Use seasonal vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or butternut squash to create a dynamic, fresh recipe that changes with local produce availability.

What Goes Great with a Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling cuts through the spicy stir-fry's heat, balancing the bold flavors with its bright, refreshing acidity.
  • Complement with Asian Beer: Select a light Japanese lager like Sapporo or Asahi, which cleanses the palate and provides a cool counterpoint to the dish's spiciness.
  • Match with Herbal Green Tea: Brew a pot of green tea to enhance the vegetable's natural earthiness and help soothe the sriracha's lingering warmth.
  • Boost with Citrus Mocktail: Create a zesty non-alcoholic drink mixing fresh lime juice, sparkling water, and a touch of ginger to mirror the stir-fry's vibrant profile.

Storing Stir-Fry So It Stays Crisp

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, separating noodles and vegetables to maintain texture.
  • Freeze: Transfer cooled stir-fry to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Vegetables might lose some crispness when thawed.
  • Microwave Reheat: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each cycle until thoroughly warmed.
  • Stovetop Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding splash of soy sauce or water to revive sauce and prevent sticking. Stir gently to redistribute heat evenly and maintain vegetable texture.

Stir-Fry FAQs for Flavorful Results

  • Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry is completely vegetarian, packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and no meat ingredients.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensuring your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

  • How spicy is this stir-fry?

The spice level depends on the amount of sriracha you add. Start with a small amount and adjust to your personal heat tolerance.

  • What cooking skills do I need to make this recipe?

This stir-fry is beginner-friendly. You’ll need basic chopping skills and the ability to stir ingredients in a pan, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.

Why Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry Deserves a Spot on Repeat

  • Quick Veggie Delight: A lightning-fast meal packed with colorful vegetables and bold, spicy flavors that transforms ordinary ingredients into an exciting culinary experience.
  • Flexible Cooking Method: Easily adaptable stir-fry technique allows for quick ingredient swaps, making it perfect for using whatever vegetables are available in your kitchen.
  • Healthy One-Pan Wonder: Nutritious dish combines multiple vegetables with protein-rich sauce, delivering a balanced meal that requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor satisfaction.
  • Customizable Spice Level: Simple sauce preparation lets you control heat intensity by adjusting sriracha amount, making it suitable for different taste preferences from mild to fiery hot.
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Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe

Spicy Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling “spicy veggie stir-fry” brings explosive Asian-inspired flavors dancing across your plate. Quick wok magic delivers crisp vegetables and bold seasonings that transport hungry diners straight to street markets of Thailand.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) thin spaghetti
  • 1 yellow onion, cut into large chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large chunks
  • 2 medium zucchini, cut into large wedges
  • 1 15-ounce (425 grams) can baby corn, drained and halved
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into florets

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sherry or low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking and Garnish Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons peanut oil
  • Sesame oil, for drizzling
  • Low-sodium soy sauce, for drizzling
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and infuse with sesame oil and soy sauce, then set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Create a vibrant sauce by whisking together soy sauce, sherry, brown sugar, cornstarch, sriracha, and freshly minced ginger in a separate container. Reserve for later use.
  3. Heat peanut oil in a spacious wok or skillet over medium-high temperature, reaching approximately 375°F.
  4. Introduce chopped onions and colorful bell peppers, sautéing rapidly for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and develop slight caramelization.
  5. Incorporate minced garlic and toast for 30-45 seconds, ensuring constant movement to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
  6. Add zucchini and continue stir-frying for an additional 2 minutes, then introduce baby corn and broccoli, stirring consistently to ensure even cooking.
  7. Stream the prepared sauce over the vegetable medley, thoroughly coating each ingredient and allowing the mixture to simmer until the sauce transforms into a glossy, thick consistency, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  8. For a more liquid texture, incrementally blend hot water and extra soy sauce to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  9. Transfer the stir-fry onto sesame soy noodles, garnishing with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

Notes

  • Swap proteins easily by adding tofu, tempeh, or seitan for a more protein-packed vegetarian meal.
  • Control spice levels by reducing or eliminating sriracha, making it kid-friendly or milder for sensitive palates.
  • Prevent soggy vegetables by cutting them into uniform sizes and maintaining high heat during stir-frying to ensure crisp texture.
  • Enhance flavor depth by marinating vegetables briefly in some sauce before cooking, allowing better absorption of seasonings.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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