10/09/2026
# Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Vegetables
A quick and flavorful veggie stir-fry, perfect as a side or a light main dish. Tender-crisp vegetables in a glossy garlic butter sauce.
**Prep:** 10 min | **Cook:** 8 min | **Total:** 18 min | **Serves:** 2 as a main, 3-4 as a side
# # Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
# # Instructions
1. **Prep the sauce.** In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
2. **Heat the pan.** Melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. **Start the carrots.** Add the carrots and stir-fry for 2 minutes, since they take the longest to soften.
4. **Add broccoli and mushrooms.** Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and the mushrooms are golden and have released their moisture.
5. **Add the garlic.** Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Don't let it brown, or it turns bitter.
6. **Add the sauce.** Give the sauce a quick stir, then pour it over the vegetables. Toss for 1-2 minutes until it thickens into a light glaze that coats everything.
7. **Season.** Add the salt and black pepper, toss once more, and taste to adjust.
8. **Serve** immediately while hot and crisp.
# # Tips
- **Keep the heat high** and don't overcrowd the pan, so the vegetables sear instead of steaming. Cook in two batches if needed.
- **Cut evenly.** Thin carrot slices and similar-sized florets cook at the same pace.
- **Butter vs. olive oil:** butter gives a rich, nutty flavor, while olive oil gives a lighter, more Mediterranean taste.
- **Skip the cornstarch** for a thinner, lighter sauce.
- **Optional finish:** a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of dried oregano or fresh parsley add a Mediterranean touch.
# # Serving Ideas
Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish, over rice, couscous, or quinoa, or with warm pita as a light vegetarian meal.
# # Storage
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for 2-3 minutes to keep the vegetables from going soft.
