As I stood in my kitchen, the lingering aroma of sautéed garlic whisked me away to a cozy little bistro where I enjoyed my favorite comforting dish. That’s the magic you’ll find in these Quick and Easy Buttered Mixed Vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe transforms a bag of frozen mixed vegetables into a delightful side that’s not only budget-friendly but also a breeze to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant, garlic-infused dish that even the pickiest eaters will adore. It’s the ideal way to brighten up any meal throughout the seasons. Ready to bring a touch of gourmet flair to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this quick, flavorful adventure!
Why Are Buttered Mixed Vegetables a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can transform frozen mixed vegetables into a hearty side dish that elevates any meal.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing frozen veggies makes this recipe both economical and accessible for everyone, keeping your grocery bills in check.
Versatile Flavor Enhancer: With savory garlic butter at its center, you can easily modify this recipe by adding spices or herbs to match your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Even picky eaters will love this dish, making it a perfect addition to family dinners or gatherings.
Easy Customization: Swap in fresh vegetables or add protein, like chicken or shrimp, for an even more satisfying meal. Enjoy the comfort of home-cooked gourmet flavors with this simple yet delightful dish!
Buttered Mixed Vegetables Ingredients
For the Vegetables
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables – The base of your dish; any combination can work, but fresh veggies add a delightful crunch.
• Vegetable Broth – Adds rich flavor during cooking; chicken broth is a great substitute if you’re not sticking to vegetarian.
For the Flavor
• Unsalted Butter – Offers a creamy richness; olive oil works as a healthier alternative for a lighter taste.
• Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with delightful aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder is an option in a pinch.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall taste; feel free to use sea salt or table salt, adjusting based on your salt sensitivity.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth; tailor it to your preference, or omit if desired.
For the Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Brings a pop of color and freshness; you can switch it out for dill or thyme for varied flavors.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttered Mixed Vegetables
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, combine frozen mixed vegetables and 1 cup of vegetable broth over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring to a low boil, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the vegetables are heated through and vibrant in color, signaling they are ready to drain.
Step 2: Drain the Vegetables
Using a fine mesh sieve, carefully drain the cooked vegetables, allowing excess broth to escape without losing any veggies. Set the strained vegetables aside momentarily while you prepare the flavorful garlic butter sauce that will elevate your buttered mixed vegetables.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Return the empty skillet to the heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes slightly frothy, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and begins to turn golden, releasing its delicious aroma.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the drained mixed vegetables back into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated in the buttery goodness, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. This quick sauté will enhance the flavors while keeping the vegetables slightly crisp for the perfect texture.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Season the buttered mixed vegetables with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning, allowing the flavors to meld together. Transfer the vibrant dish to a serving bowl and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
What to Serve with Quick and Easy Buttered Mixed Vegetables
Looking to create a delightful meal around your vibrant buttered mixed vegetables? Discover the perfect pairings to elevate your dining experience!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of garlic-infused mashed potatoes makes for a comforting complement to the crisp vegetables. A little bit of gravy drizzled on top creates a warm, homey touch.
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Grilled Chicken Breasts: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the buttery freshness of the vegetables. It’s a classic pairing that transforms any dinner into a celebratory feast.
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Baked Salmon: The rich, tender flesh of salmon pairs perfectly with the garlic notes of the mixed veggies. This delicious fish brings healthy fats and balances out the meal naturally.
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Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad packed with herbs and citrus enhances the dish with nutty undertones. This fresh, healthy side introduces a lovely contrast to the buttery flavors.
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Savory Herb Rice: Fragrant rice cooked with herbs creates a lovely backdrop to your buttery mixed vegetables. The simplicity of this dish will keep your meal grounded and flavorful.
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Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers a refreshing, crisp bite alongside your vegetables. This classic salad brings a well-loved texture and taste to your table.
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Red Wine Sangria: For a refreshing drink, a glass of red wine sangria filled with fresh fruits will brighten your meal. Its sweetness paired with the garlic butter complements your dish wonderfully.
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Lemon Sorbet: To finish on a refreshing note, serve lemon sorbet as a light dessert. This invigorating treat contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the meal, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
Expert Tips for Buttered Mixed Vegetables
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Perfect Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time. Overcooking can lead to mushy veggies, while the right time brings out vibrant colors and crisp-tender textures.
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Broth Choices: Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth if you’re watching your salt intake. This allows you to control the saltiness while still adding a rich flavor to your buttered mixed vegetables.
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Garlic Freshness: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but if you must use garlic powder, sprinkle it in during the sautéing for even distribution.
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Herb Alternatives: Fresh parsley adds a beautiful pop, but feel free to use other herbs like thyme or basil for a unique twist on your buttered mixed vegetables.
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Storage Smart: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat to retain texture without overcooking.
Make Ahead Options
These Buttered Mixed Vegetables are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop and prepare the garlic and even measure out the butter up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the mixed vegetables and drain them up to 3 days ahead, keeping them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their vibrant color and crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic in butter, add the prepped vegetables back into the skillet, and reheat for a few minutes. This approach means you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your buttered mixed vegetables with minimal effort right when you need it!
Buttered Mixed Vegetables: Tasty Twists Await!
Feel free to get creative and personalize this simple dish, transforming it into your own delicious masterpiece.
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Fresh Vegetables: Swap frozen mixed vegetables for fresh varieties like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for delightful crunch.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile and depth of flavor.
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Spice It Up: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes if you love heat; it will awaken the dish with a pleasing kick.
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Creamier Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, velvety texture that takes it to the next level.
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Protein Boost: Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier side that’s also a well-rounded meal; it’s a great way to make it more satisfying.
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Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that adds delightful surprise per bite.
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Zesty Citrus: Drizzle with a touch of lemon juice before serving to brighten flavors, providing an invigorating contrast to the buttery richness.
Feel free to explore these ideas to customize your buttered mixed vegetables experience!
How to Store and Freeze Buttered Mixed Vegetables
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps flavors fresh and prevents the vegetables from getting soggy.
Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the buttered mixed vegetables in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or use a microwave, stirring frequently, until heated through. This helps to maintain the dish’s flavor and texture.
Mix It Up: You can also add a splash of broth or a dash of butter when reheating for that just-cooked taste!
Buttered Mixed Vegetables Recipe FAQs
What type of frozen mixed vegetables should I use?
You can use any combination of frozen mixed vegetables you like! Look for bags that include a mix of vibrant colors such as peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. If you’re able to, fresh vegetables are a fantastic alternative, adding an extra crunch and flavor to your dish.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them sealed well to maintain their freshness and to prevent them from getting soggy.
Can I freeze buttered mixed vegetables?
Absolutely! To freeze, simply place the buttered mixed vegetables in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my vegetables are overcooked?
If you find that your vegetables are turning mushy, avoid overcooking on your next attempt by carefully monitoring the simmer time. The key is to remove them from heat as soon as they are heated through while still maintaining some crispness. If you’re in a pickle with overcooked veggies, consider transforming them into a soup or puree for a completely new dish!
Are these buttered mixed vegetables suitable for pets or individuals with allergies?
While buttered mixed vegetables are generally safe for humans, they’re not recommended for pets, particularly due to the butter and potential garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. If you have allergies to dairy or garlic, you can easily substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative, and skip the garlic for a gentler flavor.
Is it okay to customize the recipe?
Oh, the more the merrier! You can customize your buttered mixed vegetables by adding your favorite spices, herbs, or proteins like cooked chicken or shrimp. It’s a fun way to make the recipe your own and keep it interesting!
Buttered Mixed Vegetables: Your 20-Minute Flavor Boost!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, combine frozen mixed vegetables and 1 cup of vegetable broth over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring to a low boil, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
- Using a fine mesh sieve, carefully drain the cooked vegetables, allowing excess broth to escape without losing any veggies.
- Return the empty skillet to the heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Melt it over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute.
- Add the drained mixed vegetables back into the skillet with the garlic butter. Toss them gently to ensure they're evenly coated.
- Season the buttered mixed vegetables with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.
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