Crispy Beef Stir-Fry with Colorful Vegetables: A Vibrant Culinary Experience

Embark on a delightful culinary journey that combines tender beef with a rainbow of crisp vegetables, creating a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Vegetables

  • 250 g beef (steak or rump), thinly sliced
  • 1 small green zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 8 cherry tomatoes (red and orange), halved
  • 4 large lettuce leaves, roughly torn
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Fresh parsley leaves, chopped

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare Vegetables

  • Wash zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and lettuce
  • Slice zucchini into thin rounds
  • Cut bell pepper into strips
  • Halve cherry tomatoes
  • Tear lettuce by hand

2. Cook Beef

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in large skillet or wok
  • Sear beef strips 3-4 minutes until golden
  • Season with salt, pepper, and chopped garlic
  • Remove and set aside

3. Sauté Vegetables

  • In same pan, add remaining olive oil
  • Sauté zucchini and bell pepper 4-5 minutes
  • Keep vegetables crisp and slightly golden

4. Combine and Finish

  • Return beef to pan
  • Add soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
  • Stir 1-2 minutes
  • Add cherry tomatoes at end to preserve freshness

5. Plate and Serve

  • Spread lettuce on plates
  • Top with beef and vegetable mixture
  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley

Nutritional Information

Per Serving

  • Calories: 320-350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g

Cooking Details

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 2

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Don’t overcook beef to maintain tenderness
  • Marinate meat for deeper flavor
  • Keep vegetables crisp

Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein Alternatives: Chicken or tofu
  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes
  • Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How to slice beef thinly? Freeze briefly to make slicing easier.

Q2: Can I use different vegetables? Yes, use seasonal or favorite vegetables.

Q3: What to serve alongside? Steamed rice or quinoa work well.

Q4: How to keep beef tender? Avoid overcooking, use high heat briefly.

Q5: Can I make this vegetarian? Replace beef with tofu or plant-based protein.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate: Up to 2 days
  • Reheat: Gently in pan
  • Exclude lettuce when storing
  • Best enjoyed fresh

A colorful, nutritious meal that brings excitement to your table!