Nicole’s Vegetable Boil
Introduction
Nicole’s Vegetable Boil offers a delightful medley of fresh vegetables seasoned to perfection, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe celebrates the natural flavors of potatoes, corn, carrots, broccoli, and onions, enhanced with a blend of aromatic seasonings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a comforting meal for your family, Nicole’s Vegetable Boil promises a wholesome and satisfying experience that’s easy to prepare and enjoyed by all.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: Choose firm and waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold for their texture and flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Baby Carrots: These tender carrots provide sweetness and color.
- Broccoli: Florets of broccoli add a nutritious boost to the boil.
- Onions: Sliced onions contribute savory depth to the flavor profile.
Seasonings
- Garlic Powder: Adds a rich, savory note without overpowering.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the onion flavor and adds depth.
- Lawry’s Seasoned Salt: Provides a balanced blend of salt, herbs, and spices.
- Creole Seasoning or Slap Ya Mama: Adds a kick of heat and robust flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness and depth.
- Red Pepper: Adds heat and a spicy kick.
- Mrs. Dash Original: A versatile seasoning blend without salt, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
- Preparation: Fill a large pot with water or vegetable broth, ensuring there’s enough to cover the vegetables.
- Add Vegetables: Place the potatoes, corn on the cob, baby carrots, broccoli florets, and sliced onions into the pot.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle generously with garlic powder, onion powder, Lawry’s seasoned salt, Creole seasoning or Slap Ya Mama, smoked paprika, red pepper, and Mrs. Dash Original seasoning blend. Adjust seasonings according to taste preferences.
- Cooking: Place a lid on the pot and bring the water or broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from heat and carefully drain the vegetables. Transfer to a serving dish or individual plates, ensuring to include a variety of vegetables in each serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Useful Tips
- Vegetable Selection: Opt for fresh and seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition. You can also customize the mix with your favorite vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or squash.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preference for spiciness or saltiness. Taste the broth as it cooks and add more seasonings if needed.
- Broth Options: Using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the depth of flavor in the dish. Choose low-sodium broth if watching salt intake.
- Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a fresh finish.
Nutritional Information
- This dish is naturally low in fat and calories, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the variety of vegetables used.
- Nutrient breakdown varies based on portion size and specific vegetable choices, providing essential nutrients for a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Nicole’s Vegetable Boil is a versatile and nourishing dish that celebrates the abundance of fresh vegetables and robust seasonings. Whether served as a wholesome side dish or a satisfying main course, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and memorable meal. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, Nicole’s Vegetable Boil invites you to savor the natural goodness of vegetables in every comforting bite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful flavors that make this dish a perennial favorite on any dining table.