Budget-Friendly Stir-Fry:
A Quick & Easy Meal-Prep Recipe

Looking for a quick, nutritious, and affordable meal? This Budget-Friendly Stir-Fry is packed with fresh veggies, protein, and bold flavors—all while keeping costs low. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prep, this versatile stir-fry can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal without breaking the bank!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients to create a satisfying meal.
- Great for Meal-Prep: Make a batch in advance for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, proteins, or sauces based on what you have.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep work.
Ingredients
Makes 4 serverings
For the Stir-Fry:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb protein of choice (chicken, tofu, or shrimp)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside. - Cook the Protein:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add your protein of choice and cook until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside. - Sauté the Veggies:
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Sauté the broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute. - Combine Everything:
Return the cooked protein to the pan and pour the sauce over the stir-fry. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is evenly coated. - Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot over rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
Why This Recipe Works
This Budget-Friendly Stir-Fry is the perfect balance of affordability, nutrition, and convenience. With a mix of protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a meal-prep dream—easy to make in batches and reheat throughout the week.
Additional Tips & FAQs
- Can I make this in advance?
Yes! This stir-fry is great for meal-prep—store portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days. - What can I serve this with?
Pair with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a balanced meal. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Let’s Stay Connected!
Did you try this Budget-Friendly Stir-Fry? Share your meal-prep success on Instagram and tag @BlomBites! I’d love to see how you enjoyed this easy, affordable dish.