Forget roasting and sautéing vegetables when you're pressed for time. Instead, try steaming them — this cooking method is delightfully simple, speedy, and healthy, as it requires no added fat. Plus, steaming brings out the natural flavor of your veggies while it retains more of the nutrients. If you've never steamed your vegetables before, it's time to master this technique.

On the Stovetop:

1. Add 1 or 2 inches of water to a large pot and bring to a boil over high heat.

2. Prepare your vegetables for cooking. After washing thoroughly, cut vegetables into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

3. Place your steaming basket (a specially designed tool that fits inside a pot and holds food just over the surface of the water) into the pot of water.

4. Add your vegetables to the basket and cover.

5. Cook until your vegetables reach the desired texture. In general, most vegetables require only 1 to 2 minutes of steaming since steam is even hotter than boiling water. If you like your veggies tender, cook a little longer; if you prefer crunchy veggies, cook for shorter periods. Be careful not to overcook, or you'll end up with mushy veggies.

6. Remove the vegetables from the heat. Carefully remove the lid (remember, the steam can burn your hand!) and serve immediately with a South Beach Diet®-approved seasoning, including any spice (that doesn't contain added sugar) or fresh chopped herbs such as parsley.
????: South Beach Diet Forums http://www.southbeachdietbulletinboard.com/kitchen/649-kitchen-tip-how-steam-vegetables.html

In the Microwave:

1. Prepare your vegetables for cooking. After washing thoroughly, cut vegetables into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. Place vegetables in a large, microwave-safe bowl (a glass bowl, for example).

3. Add water to cover your vegetables — the water should be shallow in the bowl.

4. Cover the bowl with microwave-safe plastic wrap and turn over one corner to vent.

5. Microwave on high for 4 to 8 minutes (depending on thickness of vegetable) or until your veggies reach the desired consistency. Serve with a South Beach Diet approved seasoning.

Btw, has anyone tried the veggies in the microwavable bags that are in the stores now? They seem really easy on the upside, but more expensive on the downside.

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