Microwave Veggie Steamer

🕒 Prep: 1 minute
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you’re looking for a quick, healthy side dish, this Microwave Veggie Steamer is your new best friend. It's all about convenience without sacrificing flavor or nutrients. Perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients for Microwave Veggie Steamer

Broccoli florets bring a nice crunch and are packed with vitamins. They're the backbone of this dish, offering a hearty texture. Baby carrots add a touch of sweetness and color, contrasting nicely with the broccoli. Sliced bell peppers contribute a fresh, crisp flavor and another layer of color. The water is essential for creating steam, which cooks the vegetables quickly while helping to preserve nutrients. Finally, a sprinkle of salt and pepper adds simple, clean seasoning that highlights the natural flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your veggies are unevenly cooked, stir them halfway through microwaving.
  • For a touch of extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These steamed veggies pair beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. You can also toss them into a salad for added crunch. For a vegetarian option, serve them over quinoa or brown rice with a drizzle of soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly as frozen veggies might take a bit longer to cook.
What if I don't have a microwave-safe lid?
You can use a plate as a cover, but remember to leave a small gap for steam to escape.
Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano, or even a dash of garlic powder.

Microwave Veggie Steamer Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering your vegetables: 2 cups of broccoli florets, 1 cup of baby carrots, and 1 cup of sliced bell peppers. Make sure everything is washed and cut to roughly the same size for even cooking. Toss them into a microwave-safe bowl—one big enough to allow a little room for the steam to circulate.

Add 1/4 cup of water to the bowl. This might not seem like much, but it’s just enough to create that magical steam environment inside your microwave. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. If you’re using plastic wrap, leave a small gap for the steam to escape; this prevents a mini vegetable explosion in your microwave.

Place the bowl in your microwave and set it on high. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’re aiming for tender-crisp vegetables, so keep an eye on them. Microwaves can vary, so you might need to adjust the time slightly.

Once done, carefully remove the cover. Steam can cause burns, so do this step with caution. Season your veggies with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle toss to ensure even seasoning. Serve immediately while they’re warm and vibrant.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Ready in under 10 minutes.
  • No special equipment needed—just your microwave.
  • Retains nutrients and vibrant colors.
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup baby carrots
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1/4 cup water
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Place the broccoli florets, baby carrots, and sliced bell peppers in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add 1/4 cup of water to the bowl.
3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
4. Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Carefully remove the cover, watching out for steam, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

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