How to Steam Vegetables With a Steamer

Contributor

By Nannette Richford
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (0 Ratings)

Steam Vegetables With a Steamer

Fresh steamed vegetables are a healthy alternative to canned or frozen varieties. Not only do they retain their natural color and shape, but they retain vitamins and nutrients, as well. Because they cook quickly at a high temperature, flavor is enhanced and overall appearance in maintained. Stove-top steamers are ideal for preparing fresh vegetables that complement your main dish. With a few minutes of preparation, you can have fresh steamed vegetables in minutes.

How to Steam Vegetables Perfectly
Adding more vegetables to your diet is a surefire way to improve your health. Steaming vegetables allows y… More
How to Steam Vegetables With a Steamer
Fresh steamed vegetables are a healthy alternative to canned or frozen varieties. Not only do they retain … More
About Vegetable Steamers
Vegetable steamers come in different materials and sizes. Steamers can be used for foods other than vegeta… More
Steam Cooking Vegetables Tips & Techniques
Learn how to steam cook vegetables with some expert tips and techniques on steam cooking vegetables in thi… More
Steaming Sweet Potatoes & Peppers for Asian Vegetables
How to steam sweet potatoes and peppers to make an Asian vegetables dish; learn more about making vegetari… More
Steaming Mushrooms & Onion for Asian Vegetables
How to steam mushrooms and onions to make an Asian vegetables dish; learn more about making vegetarian Asi… More
Adding Fresh Rosemary to Vegetable Recipes
Learn how to add some fresh rosemary for extra flavor in this free how-to video on cooking roasted root ve… More
Chopping Parsley for Garnish Vegetable Recipes
Learn how to chop up some parsley to help garnish your vegetables and help with your presentation in this … More
How to Steam Vegetables in the Microwave
Vegetables provide nutrients, vitamins and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. By finding … More
How to Keep the Most Nutrients When Preparing Vegetables
Beside the great taste of vegetables the equally great thing is the nutrients and health benefits we get f… More
How to Compare Dark Vs. Light Colored Vegetables
Phytochemicals are the active substances in plants that give them their color, flavor, odor, and protectio… More
Steaming Carrots & Broccoli for Asian Vegetables
How to steam broccoli and carrots to make an Asian vegetables dish; learn more about making vegetarian Asi… More
Steaming Edamame & Tofu for Asian Vegetables
How to steam edamame and tofu to make an Asian vegetables dish; learn more about making vegetarian Asian f… More
Steaming Vegetables for Bourbon Mustard Chicken
Vegetables steam at different times for bourbon mustard chicken, depending on whether they are fresh or fr… More
Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe: Steam Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a great side for chicken saltimbocca. Steam vegetables for a chicken saltimbocca re… More

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Vegetable steamer Fresh vegetables

Step 1

Wash and pare vegetables as you would for boiling. Cut into uniform size pieces. Cooking vegetable pieces of the same size and thickness ensures that all vegetables are evenly cooked in the same amount of time. Steam whole vegetables, if preferred, but allow for a longer cooking time.
Step 2

Fill the bottom pot with several inches of water and bring to a boil. Place the steamer basket in the pan. The water should not reach the bottom of the steamer basket. Fill with vegetables and cover tightly with the lid. Reduce heat to maintain a light boil. You can make your own steamer by resting a metal colander inside a suitable pan of boiling water and covering tightly with a fitted lid.
Step 3

Steam for the appropriate length of time. (See Resources.) Generally, a cooking time of five to 35 minutes is required, depending on the vegetable. Turn off the steamer and allow it to cool for a few minutes before removing the lid. Use caution, as escaping steam is very hot and can easily burn your skin.