How to Make the Quick Ham and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your vegetable and ham stir-fry in 10 minutes or less.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by preparing all the vegetables. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces, slice the bell pepper and zucchini, halve the cherry tomatoes, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready to go will help the stir-fry process go quickly.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil or butter and allow it to melt and heat up.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onions to the hot pan and sauté them for 1-2 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Next, add the bell pepper and zucchini to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still retain a slight crunch. This step ensures that the vegetables are cooked to perfection without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Add the Ham and Peas
Toss the diced ham and frozen peas into the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the ham begins to get a light golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Add the Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and stir gently. Cook for 1 more minute, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly but still retain their juicy texture.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season the stir-fry with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the stir-fry hot, either on its own or with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Customization and Variations
This stir-fry recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to customize it based on what you have available or your flavor preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Add More Vegetables: You can easily swap out or add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus for more variety.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the stir-fry.
- Use Different Meats: If you don’t have ham on hand, you can use cooked chicken, turkey, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese, such as parmesan or mozzarella, on top just before serving for a cheesy finish.
Conclusion
This quick and simple vegetable stir-fry with ham is the ideal solution for busy weeknight dinners. With its balance of savory ham and fresh vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s the perfect way to get a wholesome meal on the table without any stress. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a speedy dinner after a hectic day, this dish will always deliver in both flavor and convenience. Give it a try and make it your go-to recipe for busy evenings!