Description
Steamed carrots are a classic, nutritious, and easy-to-make side dish that complements any meal. They’re naturally sweet, tender, and flavorful with just a touch of butter, salt, and pepper. This quick recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike. Steaming helps retain the carrots’ bright color, nutrients, and natural taste, creating a wholesome dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots (about 5 medium-sized carrots)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut carrots into sticks about 2 inches long and ½ inch thick, or use baby carrots for convenience.
- Place the carrots in a steamer basket.
- Add about 1 cup of water to a saucepan, ensuring the water level stays below the steamer basket.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and steam the carrots for 8–11 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Remove carrots from the steamer basket.
- Toss the carrots with butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- To Serve: Enjoy steamed carrots warm as a side dish with chicken, beef, pork, or seafood. They also make a great addition to rice bowls, casseroles, or vegetable platters.
- To Store: Place cooled carrots in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a bit of butter or microwave in short bursts until heated through.
- To Freeze: Cool carrots completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 2 months.
- To Reuse: Add leftover steamed carrots to soups, stews, or mashed potato mixes for extra nutrition and color.