Microwave Glazed Carrots, Apples And Zucchini
A quick and flavorful microwave dish combining glazed carrots, apples, and zucchini with warm cinnamon and a sweet brown sugar glaze, perfect for a healthy side or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine carrots and zucchini in a 1-quart microwave dish; pour in 3 tablespoons water.
- Cover and cook on High for 3 minutes or until carrots are crisp-tender.
- Drain; then gently toss apples into the vegetable mixture.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon and cut in margarine with a fork.
- Sprinkle mixture over top of apple-vegetable mixture.
- Cover and microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Gently toss mixture coating apples and vegetables with the glaze.
- Cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes or until glaze thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. If you prefer a vegan option, substitute margarine with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish. Ensure vegetables are cut evenly for consistent cooking, and feel free to experiment with other seasonal vegetables or fruits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these glazed carrots, apples, and zucchini as a delightful side dish to roasted poultry or pork. They pair nicely with dishes like One Skillet Cabbage, Noodles And Kielbasa for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, garnish with chopped nuts or fresh herbs just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also sauté the leftovers in a skillet for a few minutes for added texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Glazed Carrots, Apples And Zucchini contains roughly 1385 calories, with 2g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 669mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
While fresh vegetables yield the best texture, you can use frozen carrots and zucchini. Just be mindful that the cooking time may need adjustment, as frozen vegetables may release more water during cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes to the brown sugar mixture. This will enhance the overall flavor profile while balancing the sweetness of the apples.
Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and apples a few hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Just toss them in the glaze and microwave when ready to serve. This makes a quick and flavorful side for busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).