Steamed Carrots Cashew
A vibrant, mildly sweet vegetable side featuring tender carrots, peas, and crunchy salted cashews, perfect for family dinners or a healthy weekday meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the carrots into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat margarine in a heavy saucepan with a lid.
- Add the carrots, sugar, salt, and water to the saucepan.
- Cover and steam the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Be careful not to burn the carrots.
- Add the frozen peas and steam for another 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the steamed carrots. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter or olive oil can be used as substitutes. For a twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish. This recipe can also be adapted to include other vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steamed carrots and peas warm as a colorful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. They pair beautifully with Easy Ham Glaze for a more festive meal. For a complete meal, consider serving them with rice or quinoa, and a light salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover steamed carrots and peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat in short intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed Carrots Cashew contains roughly 271 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (95% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas in this recipe. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the steamed carrots, as they won't need as long to cook. Fresh peas will add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
What other nuts can I substitute for cashews?
If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, try using slivered almonds or chopped walnuts instead of cashews. Both options will add a nice crunch and a unique taste to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter or olive oil. Ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and cruelty-free version of this dish.
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).