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Healthy Sautéed Vegetables Recipe

4.6 from 85 reviews

This Healthy Sautéed Vegetables recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a colorful medley of fresh veggies. Lightly cooked in olive oil with garlic and onions, the vegetables retain their crisp-tender texture and vibrant taste. Optional additions like lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or soy sauce add a subtle tang, while toasted nuts, seeds, or Parmesan cheese provide a delicious finishing touch. Perfect as a nutritious side dish or light main, this versatile recipe is easy to customize and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or sliced thin
  • ½ cup snap peas
  • ½ cup mushrooms, sliced

Oil & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil/butter)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or soy sauce (optional)

Optional Toppings

  • Toasted nuts
  • Seeds
  • Fresh herbs
  • Grated Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Prep Vegetables: Wash all vegetables thoroughly, peel if necessary, and cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  2. Heat Pan: Place a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat but not smoke.
  3. Cook Aromatics: Add minced garlic and sliced onions to the hot oil. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions start to soften.
  4. Add Harder Vegetables: Add the carrots and broccoli florets to the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to promote even cooking.
  5. Add Softer Vegetables: Add the bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and snap peas. Sauté together for another 4 to 5 minutes until all the vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant in color.
  6. Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add optional flavorings such as lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or soy sauce to enhance the flavor. Stir well to combine.
  7. Finish & Serve: Toss the sautéed vegetables well. Garnish with your choice of toasted nuts, seeds, fresh herbs, or grated Parmesan. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you like, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
  • For a vegan version, omit Parmesan cheese.
  • Use avocado oil or butter as alternatives to olive oil for different flavors and nutrition profiles.
  • To keep the vegetables extra crisp, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Adding a splash of water or vegetable broth while sautéing can help with cooking without extra oil.

Keywords: sautéed vegetables, healthy vegetable side, quick vegetable stir-fry, vegetarian side dish, easy vegetable sauté