Mixed Vegetable Delight: A Flavorful Medley

My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t exactly known for her adventurous cooking. But one dish she made, seemingly simple as it was, always held a special place in my memory: her mixed vegetables. It wasn’t the individual vegetables themselves, but the flavorful broth they simmered in, infused with bacon and aromatic herbs, that transformed the ordinary into something truly delightful. It was a comfort food staple, a warm hug on a cold day, and a reminder of family gathered around the table.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 2 cups
• Dietary Type: Varies (see variations)

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, and corn)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• 2 slices Oscar Mayer precooked bacon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon McCormick Italian Seasoning

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Colander

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the bacon. Break the 2 slices of Oscar Mayer precooked bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. This will distribute the bacon flavor evenly throughout the dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the bacon pieces with the 2 cups of mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, and corn), 2 cups of chicken broth, ¼ cup of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of McCormick Italian Seasoning.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure that the seasoned salt dissolves completely.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium to maintain a simmer. Continue to boil uncovered for 10 minutes. The broth will reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors, and the vegetables will become tender-crisp.
5. After 10 minutes of simmering, carefully drain the mixture in a colander to remove the excess broth.
6. Serve immediately while still very hot. The warmth enhances the flavors and makes the dish even more comforting.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Vegetable Variation: Feel free to substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorites or what’s in season. Broccoli florets, cauliflower, or even diced potatoes would work well.
• Bacon Boost: If you want a smokier flavor, use smoked bacon instead of regular bacon. For a vegetarian option, consider using smoked paprika to mimic the bacon flavor.
• Broth Enhancement: Use homemade chicken broth for a richer, more flavorful dish. You can also add a bay leaf to the broth while simmering for an extra layer of aroma. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!
• Seasoning Adjustment: Taste the mixture after about 5 minutes of simmering and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more Italian seasoning for a more pronounced herb flavor.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the saucepan during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
• Bacon Crispness: For extra crispy bacon, consider cooking the bacon separately in a pan until crispy. Then add it to the vegetables after they are drained to maintain the texture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Mixed Vegetable Delight as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It’s also a great addition to a potluck or buffet. For a heartier meal, consider adding it to pasta or rice.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	77.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	24 g	31%
Total Fat	2.7 g	4%
Saturated Fat	0.8 g	4%
Cholesterol	2.7 mg	0%
Sodium	818.8 mg	34%
Total Carbohydrate	8 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	9%
Sugars	2.3 g	9%
Protein	5 g	10%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Delight: To make this dish vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier dish, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or sour cream after draining the vegetables.
• Mediterranean Twist: Use a blend of Mediterranean vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. Substitute the Italian seasoning with oregano and thyme.
• Low Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt. You can also substitute it with a homemade blend of herbs and spices.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly well in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the saucepan.

Q: Can I use regular salt instead of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt?
A: While you can use regular salt, Lawry’s Seasoned Salt adds a unique blend of flavors that enhances the dish. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with a combination of salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Q: How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming overcooked?
A: The key is to simmer the vegetables for just 10 minutes after bringing the mixture to a boil. This will ensure that they are tender-crisp but not mushy.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: You can chop the bacon and mix the dry seasonings ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the vegetables just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced onions, garlic, mushrooms, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Mixed Vegetable Delight is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple flavors and wholesome ingredients. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the comforting warmth and deliciousness it offers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own unique version. And most importantly, share it with loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete dining experience. Bon appétit!