Prep Time 10 Min
Cook Time 10 Min
Servings4 servings People
Calories150 kcal
In my kitchen, steamed vegetables are often my go-to side dish, especially when I’m aiming for something both healthy and easy to prepare. Typically, I enjoy whipping up this dish when my family craves something fresh alongside dinner. The vibrant colors of broccoli, green beans, and carrots not only make for a pretty plate but they also bring a comforting warmth that feels just right. One of my little tricks is to add ice cubes immediately after steaming. It helps to keep the vegetables bright and slightly crisp, which everyone seems to appreciate. It’s a simple dish, but one that often gets requested again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 potato, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- Ice cubes, as needed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the vegetables thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Fill a steamer pot with enough water to boil without touching the steaming basket.
- Place the vegetables in the steamer basket, cover the pot, and set the heat to medium.
- Steam the vegetables for about 5 to 10 minutes based on their type.
- Check for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender yet slightly crisp.
- Add ice cubes over the cooked vegetables to help retain their color and crunch.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds without letting it burn.
- Add the steamed vegetables to the skillet and toss them with the garlic butter for a minute or two.
- Season the vegetables with salt and black pepper to taste, then transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
What I Notice When Cooking
- Using fresh vegetables really enhances the flavor and texture.
- Steaming helps to maintain the nutrients without compromising the crunch.
- This dish pairs well with nearly any main course, making it a versatile side.
Small Adjustments
- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should retain a bit of bite.
- If you find that garlic can burn quickly, try reducing the heat just before adding it.
- Feel free to swap in any favorite vegetables based on what’s on hand.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The vegetables can lose their crunch when reheated, so I often just toss them into a heated skillet for a quick warm-up. Alternatively, they can be enjoyed cold in a salad or with a dip.
Nutritional Notes
This dish provides approximately 150 calories per serving, which is a nice, light option to complement main meals. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables included.
