steamed broccoli and carrots recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best steamed broccoli and carrots recipe

I’m a big fan of this steamed broccoli and carrots recipe because it’s so easy to make and is perfect for any occasion. My kids love it when I serve it with a simple grilled chicken or a side of quinoa, and it’s also great for a quick weeknight dinner.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy, making it a great option for families who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables, which is always a win in my book!

When I steam broccoli and carrots, I like to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt to bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, add it to salads, or even use it as a topping for soups.

I’ve also been known to sneak some extra veggies into my kids’ lunchboxes by packing steamed broccoli and carrots alongside their favorite sandwiches. It’s amazing how much they’ll eat when they think they’re getting something else entirely!

As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes. And the best part?

It’s so easy to customize with your favorite seasonings and herbs – try adding some garlic powder or dried thyme for an extra boost of flavor. Whether you’re serving this at home or taking it on the go, steamed broccoli and carrots are always a hit with my family.

Steamed Broccoli and Carrots

4.6 from 937 votes

A simple and healthy side dish of tender steamed broccoli and sweet carrots. This quick recipe preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of the vegetables.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 75 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Vegetables

1 pound broccoli florets (about 4 cups)
1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds (about 3 cups)

Seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
2Place the steamer basket inside the pot, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the basket.
3Add the broccoli florets and carrot slices to the steamer basket in an even layer.
4Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium.
5Steam the vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork but still bright in color.
6The carrots should be easily pierced but not mushy, and the broccoli should be bright green.
7Carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot and transfer the vegetables to a serving bowl.
8Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently to coat.
9Add lemon juice if desired and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with steamer basket
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Serving bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 75 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 320mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For even cooking, cut the carrots into uniform slices. You can add a clove of minced garlic to the steaming water for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking to keep the vegetables crisp.

Watch Video Of How Steamed Broccoli and Carrots Works

One of my favorite things about this steamed broccoli and carrots recipe is that it’s so easy to make ahead of time – simply steam the vegetables until tender, then let them cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them by steaming again until tender.

You can also freeze cooked steamed broccoli and carrots for up to 6 months – just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Steamed Broccoli and Carrots

What are the health benefits of steaming broccoli and carrots?

Steaming broccoli and carrots helps preserve their nutrients while cooking them quickly. This method also helps retain their natural sweetness without adding any extra sugar.

How do I store leftover steamed broccoli and carrots?

You can store leftover steamed broccoli and carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them by steaming again until tender.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or even sweet potatoes to create a delicious medley of flavors and textures. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables’ size and density.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe is vegan-friendly but not gluten-free due to the presence of salt. However, you can easily substitute salt with gluten-free alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos if needed.

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