Effortless Microwave Steamed New Potatoes & Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts. For years, they were the vegetable lurking at the edges of my plate, a miniature cabbage of doom that I’d carefully avoid. My grandmother, God bless her, boiled them until they were practically gray, emanating a sulfurous aroma that permeated the entire house. It wasn’t until culinary school, when I learned the magic of proper cooking techniques, that I finally discovered their hidden potential. Now, tender and slightly sweet, Brussels sprouts grace my table regularly – and this microwave-steamed version with new potatoes is one of my go-to quick and easy preparations.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
• Total Time: 12-15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• ½ lb new potatoes, halved or quartered if large
• ½ lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• ½ cup chicken broth or water
• 1 dash fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Equipment Needed

• 2-quart microwave-safe casserole dish with lid (or microwave-safe dish and plastic wrap)

Instructions

1. In a 2-quart microwave-safe casserole dish, combine the new potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and chicken broth (or water).

2. Cover the dish tightly with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, turn back one side slightly to allow steam to escape. This prevents pressure buildup and potential splattering.

3. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.

4. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave (use oven mitts, as it will be hot!). Stir the vegetables to ensure even cooking.

5. Cover the dish again and microwave on high for another 3-6 minutes, or until the potatoes and Brussels sprouts are tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the power of your microwave and the size of your vegetable pieces. Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork – they should be easily pierced without resistance. The Brussels sprouts should be slightly softened and vibrant green.

6. Let the vegetables stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows them to steam further and ensures they are cooked through.

7. To serve, sprinkle the cooked vegetables with fresh ground pepper, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh chives. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Uniform Size Matters: Cut the potatoes and Brussels sprouts into relatively uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. If some pieces are significantly larger, they may take longer to cook, while smaller pieces could become overcooked.
• Microwave Power Varies: Every microwave is different. Start with the lower end of the cooking time range (3 minutes in step 5) and check for doneness frequently, adding more time as needed. It’s always better to undercook slightly than to overcook.
• Broth for Flavor: Using chicken broth instead of water adds a subtle savory flavor to the vegetables. You can also experiment with vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the casserole dish. If you’re making a larger batch, cook the vegetables in two batches to ensure even steaming.
• Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or dill would also be delicious additions. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten the flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Microwave Steamed New Potatoes & Brussels Sprouts immediately as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a vegetarian main course. They are also a great addition to salads or grain bowls.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power until heated through, or sauté in a pan with a little olive oil until warmed and slightly crisped. Reheating may soften the vegetables slightly, so it’s best to eat them as fresh as possible.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	90 kcal	5%
Total Fat	1g	2%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	50mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	18g	6%
Dietary Fiber	4g	16%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	4g	8%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the recipe vegan.
• Add Garlic: Add a minced clove of garlic to the casserole dish along with the vegetables for extra flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Different Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables that steam well, such as broccoli florets, green beans, or sliced carrots. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Parmesan Cheese: For a non-vegan option, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese over the vegetables before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Make sure to break them apart before adding them to the dish.

Q: Do I need to pierce the potatoes before microwaving?
A: No, you do not need to pierce the potatoes before microwaving. Halving or quartering them is sufficient to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I use olive oil instead of broth or water?
A: While you can use a small amount of olive oil, the broth or water is necessary for creating steam and properly cooking the vegetables.

Q: What if my Brussels sprouts start to smell sulfurous while cooking?
A: Overcooking Brussels sprouts can release sulfurous compounds. Make sure to cook them just until tender-crisp and avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables ahead of time by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts and cutting the potatoes. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Microwave Steamed New Potatoes & Brussels Sprouts proves that delicious, healthy side dishes don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal in minutes. So, give it a try, experiment with different herbs and spices, and let me know what you think! And if you are looking for a way to pair this, consider some grilled salmon or chicken for a complete meal. Enjoy!