Steam-cooking fresh vegetables in the microwave is an easy way to make a healthy side dish for lunch or dinner in just minutes. The short cooking time preserves nutrients, color and flavor.
Microwave Fresh Vegetables
![Dishes of colorful microwave-cooked vegetables.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/recipe-imgs/Microwave%20Fresh%20Vegetables_v_WM.png)
Ingredients
2 cups cut vegetables (cut in similar-sized pieces)
1 to 2 Tablespoons water
as desired seasonings
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Place vegetables in a microwave-safe dish with water. Cover with a microwave-safe cover that allows a little space for steam to escape.
- Microwave on HIGH for the time that matches the vegetable (see below). Let sit for 1 or 2 minutes, remove cover, drain and season as desired.
- Asparagus, bok choy - 2 to 3 minutes
- Carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans - 3 to 4 minutes
- Potatoes (all types, cut into pieces), Brussels sprouts – 5 minutes
Notes
- You can season vegetables before or after cooking.
- Experiment to find the cooking time that's right for you.
- Try softening vegetables such as broccoli and carrots in the microwave for 1 minute on HIGH before adding to stir-fries.
- To cook whole potatoes (white or sweet), first poke the skin all around with a fork to let steam escape. For a medium-sized potato, cook on HIGH for 5 minutes, turn potato over and cook another 5 minutes. Let rest for 2 minutes before checking for doneness. Add periods of cooking 1 minute and resting 1 minute until the potato is done the way you like.
You might also like...
Pico de Gallo
![Small bowl of diced tomato-based salsa.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/styles/120_wide/public/recipe-imgs/Pico%20de%20Gallo_V_Watermarked.jpg?itok=yBJY6LM6)
Pico de Gallo
This classic Mexican salsa combines the fresh flavors of veggies, herbs, and tangy citrus for the perfect dip or topper for a variety of dishes.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Kiwi Pineapple Slaw
![Mix of kiwi with vegetables in a large bowl.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/styles/120_wide/public/recipe-imgs/kiwi_pineapple_slaw_v_watermarked.jpg?itok=Zm7sd6v9)
Kiwi Pineapple Slaw
A sweet and savory salad that is creamy, crunchy and perfect for a summer picnic.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Tuna Salad with Cucumber
![Tuna and pea mix served over a bed of lettuce.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/styles/120_wide/public/recipe-imgs/Mediterrean%20Salad.jpg?itok=QtIsrkdm)
Tuna Salad with Cucumber
Bright and crunchy salad that is ready in about 15 minutes.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
8 wedges
Mushroom Stroganoff
![Rotini noodles with a cream and mushroom sauce.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/styles/120_wide/public/recipe-imgs/Mushroon%20Stroganoff_DSC0772.jpg?itok=PGNFuEgR)
Mushroom Stroganoff
A classic dish combining whole grain noodles and a creamy mushroom sauce.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Stovetop Quinoa
![Bowls of cooked quinoa.](/sites/foodhero-prod/files/styles/120_wide/public/recipe-imgs/Stovetop%20Quinoa_0.jpeg?itok=gcYTJd6Y)
Stovetop Quinoa
This grain-like seed has an earthy and nutty flavor with a fluffy, slightly chewy texture.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
25 minutes
Makes:
3 cups