Instant Vegetable Medley
Steamed vegetables are one of the easiest and healthiest things you can make in the Instant Pot, and I like to boost their flavor by sauteing them in garlic and olive oil just before serving. Adding a touch of healthy fat to this side dish helps the body absorb their important fat-soluble vitamins, like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vegetables can overcook if you dont quickly release the pressure, so stay close to your Instant Pot or you may wind up with mushy vegetables.
Steamed vegetables are one of the easiest and healthiest things you can make in the Instant Pot, and I like to boost their flavor by sauteing them in garlic and olive oil just before serving. Adding a touch of healthy fat to this side dish helps the body absorb their important fat-soluble vitamins, like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vegetables can overcook if you dont quickly release the pressure, so stay close to your Instant Pot or you may wind up with mushy vegetables.
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 6.75000001369468 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0.932040001890961 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (121g)
- Sodium 0.135000000273894 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.182790000370852 g
- Calories 60 calories
Step-by-step
- Pour 1 cup water into the Instant Pot and arrange a steamer basket on the bottom.
- Place the vegetables in the steamer basket, making sure the vegetables arent touching the water.
- Secure the lid and move the steam release valve to Sealing.
- Select Manual/Pressure Cook to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes.
- When the pot beeps and the screen reads L0:00, immediately move the steam release valve to Venting to quickly release the steam pressure.
- When the floating valve drops, remove the lid and press Cancel to stop the cooking cycle. The vegetables should be tender, but with some tooth to them.
- Use oven mitts to remove the steamer basket full of vegetables, drain the water from the pot, then dry the pot and return it to the Instant Pot housing.
- Press Sauté and add the olive oil to the Instant Pot.
- Once the oil is hot but not smoking, add in the garlic and stir briefly, just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the steamed vegetables to the pot and stir well to coat them in the garlic-infused olive oil, about 30 seconds more.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, then serve warm with parsley on top.
- Store leftover vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for 1 week. They make for great toppings in a salad or grain bowl.
Instant Vegetable Medley: A Quick and Healthy Side Dish
As a busy professional, finding time to cook healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between meetings, deadlines, and the never-ending to-do list, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've fallen in love with the Instant Pot. It's a game-changer, allowing me to whip up delicious and nutritious meals in a fraction of the time. This Instant Vegetable Medley is a perfect example. It's quick, easy, and packed with nutrients – exactly what I need to fuel my busy day.
This recipe is more than just a side dish; it's a testament to efficient cooking and healthy eating. I often find myself grabbing this vegetable medley for lunch, adding it to salads for a boost of flavor and nutrition, or serving it as a simple yet satisfying dinner side. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use any assortment of non-starchy vegetables you have on hand, making it incredibly adaptable to whatever is in season or already in my fridge. I frequently incorporate broccoli, carrots, and green beans, but feel free to experiment with your favorites – cauliflower, asparagus, and peas also work wonderfully.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is the addition of garlic and olive oil after steaming. This simple step elevates the flavor profile significantly, adding a depth of taste that complements the vegetables' natural sweetness. The olive oil also plays a crucial role in helping the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins, maximizing the nutritional benefits. This is a small detail but makes a noticeable difference in both taste and health benefits.
Beyond the speed and convenience, this recipe offers a sense of satisfaction knowing I'm nourishing my body with wholesome ingredients. In today's fast-paced world, finding time for healthy eating is a priority, not a luxury, and this recipe seamlessly integrates into my busy lifestyle. The best part? Leftovers keep well, perfect for quick additions to lunches or other meals throughout the week. I don't have to worry about spending too much time preparing, or even about waste, because it’s easy to use up the rest in other dishes!
Tips for Success:
- Choose your vegetables wisely: Opt for a mix of colors and textures for a more appealing and flavorful dish.
- Don't overcook: Quick release is key to maintaining the vegetables' crispness. If you let the pressure release naturally, the vegetables might become mushy.
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor combinations.
- Make it a meal: Add protein like grilled chicken or fish to make this a complete and satisfying meal.
This Instant Vegetable Medley isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to efficient, healthy cooking that fits seamlessly into the life of a busy professional. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
