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How to steam vegetables in the microwave
It can be hard to make time for a healthy meal, especially when you're busy taking care of your family. Thankfully, you can quickly cook a healthy side dish, like green beans, with the help of your microwave. Use this guide to learn how to steam vegetables in the microwave so you can get tasty and tender veggies on the table in minutes.
Easy microwave steamed vegetables recipe
You can have perfectly cooked veggies in minutes when you use the following steps to steam vegetables in the microwave.
Yields
The serving size of steamed vegetables varies depending on the type of vegetable and amount you choose to cook.
Ingredients
Fresh vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans or cauliflower
Water
Tools
- Microwave, like the Whirlpool® Over-the-Range Microwave with Steam Cooking
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Oven mitts
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
Cook times vary depending on the type of vegetable you choose to steam. Use the chart below to explore cook times for commonly steamed vegetables.
| Vegetable type | Cook time |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | 6-8 minutes |
| Bok choy | 4-5 minutes |
| Potatoes | 8-10 minutes |
| Green beans | 6-7 minutes |
| Broccoli/cauliflower | 3-4 minutes |
| Zucchini | 3-4 minutes |
| Asparagus | 3 minutes |
| Spinach | 2 minutes |
Step 1: Prep the vegetables
Before you can place your vegetables of choice inside your microwave, they need to be properly washed and prepped. Wash vegetables with warm water, then cut them into smaller pieces. Use the chart below to learn how to prepare common vegetables to be steamed in the microwave.
| Vegetable type | Preparation |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | Cut each sprout in half |
| Bok choy | Remove the core and separate leaves |
| Potatoes | Cut into equally sized pieces, peeling is optional |
| Green beans | Trim the ends |
| Broccoli/cauliflower | Cut off florets in 1 in. pieces |
| Zucchini | Slice into ¼ – ½ in. discs |
| Asparagus | Leave whole |
| Spinach | Remove stems |
Step 2: Place in a microwave-safe dish and add water
Once your vegetables have been prepared for steaming, place them in a microwave-safe bowl and add 2–4 tablespoons of water to the bowl. The amount of water you add depends on the portion of vegetables you plan to steam. Larger portions require more water. Cover the bowl of vegetables with either a loose fitting lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with punctured holes for ventilation.
If you’re using a Whirlpool® microwave with the Steam Cooking feature, add ½ cup water to the Steam Vessel base, then place your vegetables in the vessel insert and close the lid over the vessel.
Step 3: Microwave your vegetables
How you steam your vegetables in the microwave depends on the type of microwave you’re using. If you’re using a standard microwave, select the appropriate cook time for your chosen vegetable and press start. Once the timer goes off, let the vegetables rest for 2–3 minutes before removing from the microwave with oven mitts.
If you’re using a Whirlpool® microwave with the Steam Cooking feature, place the steam vessel on the turntable and select the steam cook setting on your microwave’s control panel. Select the fresh vegetables option when prompted, then press start. Once the timer goes off, be sure to use oven mitts to remove the steam vessel from the microwave. Avoid lifting or removing the lid while the steam vessel is inside the microwave as this can impact the microwave’s steam sensor.
Learn more about how to steam vegetables in an oven.
What vegetables taste good steamed?
Sturdy vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, zucchini and green beans can be delicious when steamed as they maintain their structure during the steaming process. You can also steam leafy greens like spinach and Bok choy to create a tasty side dish for your family’s favorite recipes.
Cooking rice in the microwave can be a great way to easily make a full dinner along with your steamed vegetables.
Explore Whirlpool® microwaves
Whirlpool® microwaves are designed to handle more than just reheating leftovers. With select models offering features like Steam Cooking, Sensor Cooking and food-specific presets, you can use your microwave to prepare your family’s favorites.
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Learn more about microwave cooking with Whirlpool brand
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