When it comes to cooking, many of us are on the lookout for quick and delicious recipes that can be whipped up on a busy weeknight. And let’s face it – steaming is one of the most efficient ways to cook a meal without sacrificing flavor! With its ability to retain nutrients and textures, steaming is an ideal method for preparing a wide variety of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering steam oven recipes that are sure to become your new go-to’s for busy nights. From seafood to poultry, pork, and even tofu, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your steam oven and get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes!
Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing Steamed Lemon Herb Salmon recipe, infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s also healthy!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket in a large pot filled with 2 inches of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared steamer basket.
4. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Steam the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Asparagus
A classic combination of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and tender asparagus makes for a delicious and impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer.
5. Place the shrimp on top of the asparagus, leaving some space between each shrimp.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, and the asparagus is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Mediterranean Chicken
This recipe brings together the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with the ease of steaming. Serve as a main course or add to your favorite salads and wraps for a nutritious snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a steamer basket, leaving space between each breast.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from heat and top with feta cheese, if using.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh oregano leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herbed Potatoes with Rosemary
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthy taste of potatoes with the piney aroma of rosemary. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Asian Glazed Pork Belly
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Asian-inspired glaze with the tender texture of steamed pork belly, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise, whole
– 1 cinnamon stick, whole
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Place pork belly in the steamer basket, reserving 1/4 cup of the glaze. Steam for 30 minutes.
4. Brush the reserved glaze all over the pork belly. Return to steamer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Citrus Steamed Cod with Fennel
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional steamed cod, this recipe pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa. The subtle anise flavor of fennel adds depth to the dish without overpowering the delicate fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 bulbs of fennel, sliced
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 lemon, peeled and segmented
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place sliced fennel in the bottom of the steamer basket.
4. Arrange cod fillets on top of the fennel.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine orange and lemon segments in a small bowl.
7. Serve cod with citrus mixture spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Moroccan Spiced Lamb
This Steamed Moroccan Spiced Lamb recipe is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and tender lamb, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, mix together lamb, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the lamb mixture in the prepared steamer basket.
4. Steam for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Serve hot with chicken broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vegetable Medley with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this flavorful medley featuring a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
6. While the vegetables are roasting, mix balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl.
7. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Steamed Teriyaki Tofu Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of Japan with the simplicity of a bowl meal, featuring tender and flavorful steamed tofu in a sweet teriyaki sauce. A perfect quick and healthy meal option!
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
2. Place the tofu pieces in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3. Steam the tofu for 8-10 minutes or until tender.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze all over the tofu during the last minute of steaming.
5. Serve hot with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Honey Glazed Carrots
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a hint of honey and a touch of spice. Perfect as a side dish for any occasion, these steamed honey glazed carrots are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan with a steamer basket, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place chopped carrots in the steamer basket.
3. Cover the saucepan with a lid and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together honey, butter, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove carrots from heat and drizzle with honey glaze, tossing to coat.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Spiced Steamed Sweet Potatoes
Add a warm and aromatic twist to classic sweet potatoes with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or main course, these spiced steamed sweet potatoes are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket or pot with a steaming insert.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the spice mixture to the sweet potato cubes and toss until well coated.
5. Place the sweet potatoes in the prepared steamer basket or pot.
6. Steam the sweet potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Coconut Curry Mussels
This recipe combines the brininess of mussels with the warmth of coconut curry flavors, perfect for a quick and flavorful appetizer or main course. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, removing any broken or open shells.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, and cumin; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add mussels, cover saucepan, and steam until shells open (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Steamed Ginger Soy Bok Choy
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of soy sauce with the spicy warmth of ginger to create a deliciously simple side dish. Steaming the bok choy helps retain its delicate texture and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large steamer basket with water and bring to a boil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the sliced ginger to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Place the bok choy leaves in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each leaf.
5. Pour the ginger-soy mixture evenly over the bok choy.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the leaves are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful turkey breast with a fragrant herb crust, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and healthy dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast in the center of a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the turkey breast.
5. Steam the turkey breast for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Steamed Lemon Dill Zucchini
This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of zucchini, balanced by the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill. Perfect for a light and easy side dish or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the zucchinis into 1-inch slices.
2. In a large pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the water.
4. Add the zucchini slices to the steamer basket in a single layer.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and stir in chopped dill and lemon juice.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Thai Basil Chicken
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional chicken dishes, infused with the aromatic flavors of Thai basil and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine garlic, Thai basil, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place the chicken in a steamer basket, pour the marinade over it.
4. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with steamed vegetables or rice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional roasted Brussels sprouts, with the added sweetness of maple syrup. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, these steamed sprouts are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add Brussels sprouts to the steamer basket, leaving some space between each sprout.
4. Drizzle maple syrup, olive oil, and minced garlic evenly over the sprouts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until sprouts are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Cilantro Lime Rice
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals with this simple recipe for Steamed Cilantro Lime Rice. This aromatic rice dish is perfect as a side or used as a base for various main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and steam for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
5. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 flavorful steam oven recipes! From succulent salmon and shrimp to hearty chicken and pork belly, there’s something for everyone. Try steaming Mediterranean chicken with rosemary, or indulge in Asian-glazed pork belly. If you’re a seafood lover, go for citrus-steamed cod with fennel, while vegetarians will enjoy vegetable medleys with balsamic glaze. There are also plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, including teriyaki tofu bowls and steamed coconut curry mussels. Perfect for busy weeknights, these recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor!