Steaming is one of the healthiest ways to cook. This gentle cooking method preserves nutrients, keeps dishes low in calories, and retains the natural flavors of ingredients without adding extra fat. Whether you’re new to steaming or already a fan, these recipes will show you how easy it is to make delicious, flavorful meals without frying or sautéing. Here are eight tasty steamed dishes you can whip up in no time!
1. Steamed Garlic Butter Salmon
This rich and tender salmon melts in your mouth!
Salmon is already known for its omega-3s, and steaming it helps lock in that fresh, delicate flavor. Here’s a quick recipe:
- Ingredients: Fresh salmon fillet, garlic, unsalted butter, lemon, fresh herbs (like dill or parsley), salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Place the salmon on a steamer-safe dish. Spread minced garlic and small butter pieces over the salmon, season with salt and pepper, and add a few lemon slices. Steam for about 10 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.
- Tip: Serve with steamed veggies like asparagus or broccoli for a complete, nutritious meal.
This dish is simple, tasty, and loaded with healthy fats. The garlic and lemon add a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
2. Steamed Chicken with Ginger and Green Onions
A flavorful dish with an Asian twist, perfect for any meal.
- Ingredients: Chicken breasts or thighs, fresh ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Place the chicken pieces in a steamer, topping them with sliced ginger and green onions. Steam until fully cooked, around 15-20 minutes. Drizzle with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil before serving.
- Tip: Pair with a side of steamed jasmine rice for an authentic, balanced meal.
This dish is perfect when you want something hearty but not heavy. The ginger adds a warming, aromatic quality, while the green onions offer a fresh kick.
3. Steamed Vegetables with Herb Dip
A healthy, colorful side dish for any main course.
Steamed vegetables are a classic, and they pair wonderfully with a creamy herb dip that’s both light and refreshing.
- Ingredients: Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, green beans, salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Steam mixed vegetables until they are tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Dip: Blend Greek yogurt with fresh herbs (parsley, dill), garlic, salt, and pepper for a refreshing dip.
- Tip: This dish is excellent for meal prep, as you can easily reheat steamed vegetables.
This recipe is a fantastic side that goes with almost any main dish and brings a rainbow of nutrients to the table.
4. Steamed Shrimp with Garlic and Lemon
A quick and delicious seafood option that’s full of flavor!
Shrimp steam in just minutes, making this dish a great choice for busy weeknights.
- Ingredients: Large shrimp, garlic, lemon juice, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Season the shrimp with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Steam for about 5 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and tender.
- Tip: Serve over steamed rice or alongside steamed veggies for a light meal.
The garlic and lemon bring out the sweetness of the shrimp, and this dish pairs well with rice or a leafy green salad.
5. Steamed Tofu with Soy-Ginger Sauce
A protein-packed vegetarian dish that’s satisfying and easy to make.
For those looking to reduce their meat intake, this steamed tofu dish is delicious, nutritious, and filling.
- Ingredients: Firm tofu, soy sauce, ginger, green onions, sesame seeds, and a dash of sesame oil.
- Instructions: Slice the tofu and place in a steamer. Steam for about 5 minutes. Mix soy sauce, grated ginger, chopped green onions, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the tofu and garnish with sesame seeds.
- Tip: Serve with a side of steamed bok choy or other greens for added texture and flavor.
This dish is packed with plant-based protein, and the soy-ginger sauce brings an umami kick that complements the tofu.
6. Steamed Dumplings with Vegetable Filling
A fun, customizable dish that’s perfect for sharing!
Steamed dumplings are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re light, healthy, and can be filled with just about anything.
- Ingredients: Dumpling wrappers, finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Instructions: Combine the vegetable filling and season with soy sauce and sesame oil. Place a spoonful of filling in each wrapper, fold, and seal. Steam the dumplings for about 8-10 minutes until the wrappers become translucent.
- Tip: Serve with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of chili oil.
Dumplings are versatile and can be adjusted to your taste—just swap out vegetables or add a bit of tofu.
7. Steamed Egg Custard
A soft, silky dish that’s comforting and quick to prepare.
Steamed egg custard is a popular dish in many Asian cuisines, known for its creamy texture and mild taste.
- Ingredients: Eggs, water or chicken broth, salt, and green onions for garnish.
- Instructions: Beat eggs with water (or broth) and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture into a heat-safe dish, cover with plastic wrap, and steam for 10-12 minutes until set. Garnish with green onions.
- Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle a few drops of soy sauce before serving.
This dish is a gentle, soothing addition to any meal and can be customized with mushrooms or small bits of cooked meat.
8. Steamed Banana Coconut Cake
For a sweet and healthy dessert that feels indulgent!
If you’re looking for a steamed dessert, this banana coconut cake is sweet, moist, and totally guilt-free.
- Ingredients: Ripe bananas, coconut milk, rice flour, sugar (or honey), shredded coconut.
- Instructions: Mash bananas and mix with coconut milk, rice flour, and sugar. Pour the batter into a small, greased pan, sprinkle shredded coconut on top, and steam for about 15 minutes until set.
- Tip: Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
This cake is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without adding refined sugar or fats.
Conclusion Steaming is a versatile, health-friendly cooking method that lets you enjoy a variety of dishes without extra oil or calories. From savory entrees to sweet treats, these steamed dishes showcase how flavorful and satisfying steamed food can be. Try these recipes and bring the benefits of steaming into your kitchen—you’ll be amazed at how delicious healthy eating can be!