How to Steam Vegetables in the Microwave

Most vegetables can be steamed in the microwave.

Vegetables provide nutrients, vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. By finding different ways to include more vegetables on your menus, you will be more likely to eat them. One fast and easy way is to steam your vegetables in the microwave.

Things You'll Need

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Wash the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the vegetables into equal-sized pieces.

2. Place vegetables in a glass or other microwave-safe bowl.

3. Add a small amount of water, about 2 tablespoons, to the bowl.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe cover.

5. Microwave on high. The amount of time needed will vary greatly, depending on the type of vegetable and how small it is cut. A pound of asparagus will take three to six minutes, while three-quarter pounds of whole green beans can take eight to 12 minutes. Set the microwave for half the time you expect the vegetables will need to cook.

6. Open microwave and stir or rearrange the vegetables when the cycle is up, then reset for the same amount of time.

7. Test vegetables at the end of the cooking cycle. If not done enough, continue microwaving on high in one-minute intervals until ready.

Tips & Warnings

• Squash, which can take a long time in the oven, can be steamed quickly in the microwave.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens New Cook Book; Jan Miller