Monday High Protein Dinner: Lean Beef Stir-Fry with Snow Peas Recipe
A fast beef stir-fry with crisp snow peas is the Monday high protein dinner that proves starting the week healthy doesn't mean eating boring food.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- lean beef sirloin 1 lb
- snow peas 2 cups
- red bell pepper 1 pieces
- yellow onion 0.5 pieces
- garlic 2 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
- soy sauce 3 tbsp
- sesame oil 1 tbsp
- cornstarch 1 tbsp
- black pepper 0.25 tsp
- canola oil 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates
20 g
26%
Protein
32 g
42%
Fat
9 g
32%
Cooking steps
-
1
Slice the beef sirloin thinly against the grain for tenderness; toss with cornstarch and black pepper for an even coating.
-
2
Heat canola oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat; add the beef in a single layer and sear for 1 minute until well-browned, then remove to a plate.
-
3
Reduce heat to medium-high and add sliced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper; stir-fry for 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
-
4
Add snow peas and continue stir-frying for 1–2 minutes, maintaining crisp texture—do not overcook.
-
5
Return beef to the pan; add soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing all ingredients quickly over medium-high heat for 1 minute until sauce coats and beef is heated through. Serve immediately.
Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is lean beef sirloin, which brings a tender, savory protein component and defines both the dish's main flavor and its high protein value. Snow peas add crisp freshness and balance.
Q. Which seasoning gives the stir-fry its signature flavor?
Soy sauce and sesame oil form the backbone of the seasoning. Soy sauce delivers umami and depth, while sesame oil gives a subtle nutty aroma that completes the stir-fry profile.
Q. How can I avoid overcooking the snow peas?
After adding the snow peas, stir-fry for just 1–2 minutes over medium-high heat. This preserves their bright color and crisp texture—avoid cooking too long, as they lose crunch easily.
Q. What are the nutrition stats for this stir-fry?
Each serving provides 305 kcal, with 32g protein (42%), 20g carbs (26%), and 9g fat (32%), making it perfectly suited for high protein, low carb, and diabetic friendly meal plans.
Q. What is the ideal heat control when searing the beef?
Sear the beef quickly on high heat for 1 minute to develop flavor and keep it juicy. Crowding the pan will lower the heat, so cook in a single layer and remove once browned to avoid overcooking.
