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

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.
- Rinse or scrub fresh vegetables under running water before preparing.
- 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...
Mix and Match Vegetable Chowder

Mix and Match Vegetable Chowder
You’ll always enjoy this hearty chowder recipe. Change it up with the ingredients and spices you have on hand.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
40 minutes
Makes:
4 Servings
Black Bean Soup

Black Bean Soup
A simple, hearty soup with black beans, tomatoes, herbs and a hint of lime. One-pot meal ready in an hour!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
12 cups
Quick Chili

Quick Chili
With 5 ingredients and 30 minutes, you will have a hearty and satisfying chili. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies and toppings.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad

Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad
Enjoy this main dish or side salad that is full of flavor, color, texture and nutrients.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies
This simple and tasty cookie is made with nut flours and your choice of sweetener. Finish the fun with a thumbprint filling of your favorite jam.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
15 cookies
Hummus (no tahini)

Hummus (no tahini)
Simple yet delicious homemade hummus dip, made without tahini.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 cups