Dive into the world of steam oven cooking with our roundup of 18 Delicious Steam Oven Recipes for Healthy Living! Whether you’re craving quick weeknight dinners, seasonal favorites, or comforting meals that don’t skimp on nutrition, we’ve got you covered. These recipes promise to keep your meals moist, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Ready to transform your cooking? Let’s get steaming!
Steamed Lemon Herb Chicken
This Steamed Lemon Herb Chicken is a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, bringing a burst of freshness to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the bowl, mixing well to marinate the chicken. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Heat a steamer over medium-high heat. Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth into the bottom of the steamer.
- Place the marinated chicken in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve the chicken warm, drizzled with the steaming liquid for extra flavor.
The magic of this dish lies in the steaming technique, which locks in the chicken’s moisture while infusing it with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs.
Tip: For an extra zing, serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.
Garlic Butter Steamed Shrimp
Dive into the simplicity and elegance of this Garlic Butter Steamed Shrimp, a dish that brings the ocean’s freshness right to your table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, followed by the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Cover the skillet and let the shrimp steam in the garlic butter sauce for 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with the 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
The magic of this dish lies in the steam-cooking method, which locks in the shrimp’s natural sweetness while infusing it with rich garlic butter flavors. It’s a quick yet impressive dish that feels gourmet without the gourmet effort.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, serve the shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Steamed Asian Dumplings
There’s something truly special about biting into a tender, flavorful steamed dumpling — and with this recipe, you can bring that magic right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 package (about 30) round dumpling wrappers
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup finely chopped napa cabbage
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold over to form a half-moon shape, and press to seal, pleating the edges if desired.
- Arrange the dumplings in a single layer in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, until the dumplings are cooked through and the wrappers are translucent.
The secret to these dumplings’ irresistible texture? The combination of juicy pork and crisp napa cabbage, all wrapped up in a delicate, chewy skin.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, serve with a dipping sauce made from equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar, with a dash of chili oil.
Herb Steamed Salmon Fillet
Steaming salmon with herbs is a foolproof way to keep it moist and infuse it with fresh flavors. Here’s how to make a simple yet elegant Herb Steamed Salmon Fillet that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin-on
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup fresh dill, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to create a herb marinade.
- Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish and coat it evenly with the herb marinade. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Pour 1/2 cup water into a large skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Place the salmon fillet, skin-side down, in a steamer basket over the simmering water. Cover and steam for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve the salmon hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
The gentle steaming process locks in the salmon’s natural juices, while the herb marinade adds a bright, aromatic touch that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a few slices of lemon to the steaming water.
Steamed Vegetable Medley
Steamed Vegetable Medley is a vibrant, healthy side that brings out the natural sweetness and crunch of fresh veggies with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup carrot slices
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Fill a pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Place the broccoli, cauliflower, carrot slices, and snap peas in a steamer basket. Lower the basket into the pot, ensuring the water doesn’t touch the veggies. Cover with a lid.
- Steam for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are bright in color and tender-crisp.
- Remove the steamer basket from the pot. Transfer the vegetables to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and toss gently to coat.
- Finish with a splash of 1 tbsp lemon juice for a zesty kick.
The magic of this medley lies in the quick steam that preserves each vegetable’s texture and hue, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Steamed Cod with Ginger and Scallions
Steamed Cod with Ginger and Scallions is a light, flavorful dish that brings the delicate taste of the sea right to your dinner table, with a fragrant Asian twist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cod fillet
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 inch fresh ginger, julienned
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
Instructions
- Place the cod fillet on a heatproof plate that fits inside your steamer.
- In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp white pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the cod.
- Scatter the julienned ginger and half of the sliced scallions over the top of the cod.
- Bring water in your steamer to a boil. Place the plate with the cod in the steamer, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the plate from the steamer and sprinkle the remaining scallions on top for a fresh, colorful finish.
The gentle steaming process preserves the cod’s moist texture, while the ginger and scallions infuse it with a bright, aromatic flavor that’s irresistibly good.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, heat a tablespoon of oil until just smoking and drizzle it over the scallions right before serving to release their fragrance.
Steamed Pork Buns
There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a fluffy, steamed bun filled with savory pork. These Steamed Pork Buns are a delightful project for any home cook looking to explore the art of dim sum at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup warm water, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp active dry yeast. Knead into a smooth dough, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- While the dough rises, mix 1/2 lb ground pork with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp minced ginger, and 1 finely chopped green onion in a bowl.
- After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a circle with your hands.
- Place a spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of each dough circle. Pinch the edges together to seal the bun.
- Arrange the buns on parchment paper in a steamer, leaving space between each. Steam over boiling water for 15 minutes.
The magic of these buns lies in their contrast: the soft, pillowy exterior giving way to a rich, flavorful pork filling. Perfect for sharing, they’re sure to impress at your next gathering.
Tip: For an extra glossy finish, brush the steamed buns with a little sesame oil right after cooking.
Steamed Chocolate Lava Cake
Imagine breaking into a tender steamed cake to reveal a river of molten chocolate—this Steamed Chocolate Lava Cake is a dream come true for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until well combined.
- Stir in 1/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
- Fold in 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, then divide the batter evenly among 4 greased ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in a steamer over 1/2 cup hot water, cover, and steam for 20 minutes over medium heat.
- Remove from the steamer and let sit for 2 minutes before serving. The cakes should be firm on the outside but ooze chocolate when cut into.
What sets this dessert apart is its magical contrast between the fluffy cake exterior and the decadent, liquid chocolate center, achieved without an oven.
Tip: For an extra touch of luxury, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Steamed Artichokes with Lemon Aioli
Steamed artichokes with lemon aioli is a simple yet elegant dish that brings a touch of sophistication to any meal, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients
- 2 large artichokes
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Squeeze the juice of one lemon half into the water and add the spent half to the pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- While the water heats, prepare the artichokes by trimming the stems to 1 inch and cutting off the top 1 inch of each artichoke. Use kitchen shears to trim the sharp tips off the remaining leaves.
- Place the artichokes in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 25-30 minutes until the base is tender when pierced with a knife.
- Meanwhile, make the lemon aioli by combining mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth.
- Once the artichokes are done, remove them from the pot and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Serve the steamed artichokes warm with the lemon aioli on the side for dipping.
The contrast between the tender artichoke leaves and the creamy, zesty aioli creates a delightful interplay of textures and flavors that’s sure to captivate your palate.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the aioli.
Steamed Mussels in White Wine Sauce
There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and elegance of steamed mussels in a fragrant white wine sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner that feels a bit fancy without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh mussels, scrubbed and debearded
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and shallots, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, bringing to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 3 minutes, to cook off the alcohol.
- Add the mussels to the pot, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels open. Discard any that remain closed.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute to warm through.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
The magic of this dish lies in the broth—a luxurious blend of white wine and cream that’s perfect for sopping up with crusty bread.
Tip: Serve immediately in wide bowls with plenty of bread to enjoy every last drop of the sauce.
Steamed Pumpkin with Cinnamon
Steamed Pumpkin with Cinnamon is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a warm spice note.
Ingredients
- 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. Make sure the water does not touch the bottom of the basket.
- Place the pumpkin cubes in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 15 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the pumpkin is steaming, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl.
- Transfer the steamed pumpkin to a serving bowl. Drizzle the butter mixture over the pumpkin and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Serve warm. The gentle steam cooking preserves the pumpkin’s vibrant color and texture, while the cinnamon butter adds a comforting aroma and richness.
Tip: For an extra touch of warmth, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg over the pumpkin before serving.
Steamed Rice with Saffron
Steamed Rice with Saffron transforms a simple staple into a luxurious side dish with its vibrant color and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
- In a small bowl, soak the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 10 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 3/4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir once, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir in the saffron and its soaking water until evenly distributed.
- Serve the rice warm, showcasing its golden hues and delicate saffron aroma.
The magic of this dish lies in the saffron’s ability to infuse the rice with a subtle floral note and a stunning color, making it a standout side for special dinners.
Tip: For an even more aromatic version, toast the saffron threads lightly in a dry pan before soaking to intensify their flavor.
Steamed Broccoli with Almonds
Steamed Broccoli with Almonds is a simple yet elegant side dish that brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Fill a pot with an inch of water and bring to a boil. Place a steamer basket inside, add the broccoli florets, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- While the broccoli steams, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
- Transfer the steamed broccoli to a serving bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss gently to combine.
- Top the broccoli with the toasted almonds and serve immediately.
The combination of steamed broccoli with the crunch of toasted almonds and a hint of lemon creates a side dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Steamed Carrots with Honey Glaze
Steamed carrots with a honey glaze are a simple yet elegant side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, until just tender.
- While the carrots steam, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined.
- Transfer the steamed carrots to a serving bowl. Pour the honey glaze over the carrots and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley before serving.
The honey glaze caramelizes slightly on the warm carrots, creating a delightful contrast between the sweet coating and the vegetable’s natural earthiness.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the honey glaze.
Steamed Pear with Vanilla Sauce
Steamed Pear with Vanilla Sauce is a subtly sweet dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for when you want something light yet comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm pears, peeled and cored
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place the peeled and cored pears in a steamer basket over 1/2 cup of boiling water. Cover and steam for 15 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the pears steam, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and the split vanilla bean in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Discard the vanilla bean.
- To serve, place each steamed pear on a plate and drizzle generously with the vanilla sauce.
The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the soft, juicy pear and the rich, aromatic vanilla sauce—simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the pears before serving.
Steamed Spinach with Garlic
Steamed spinach with garlic is a simple, vibrant side dish that brings a punch of flavor to any meal, with minimal effort required.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh spinach, thoroughly washed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pan in batches, stirring gently as it wilts. Continue adding spinach until all of it is in the pan.
- Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the spinach, then drizzle with lemon juice. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the spinach steam for 2-3 minutes, until it’s fully wilted but still bright green.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately, ensuring the garlic and lemon flavors are well distributed throughout the dish.
The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the earthy spinach, the sharpness of garlic, and the bright acidity of lemon, creating a side that’s anything but ordinary.
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.
Steamed Quinoa with Vegetables
Steamed quinoa with vegetables is a light, nutritious dish that brings a rainbow of colors and flavors to your table, perfect for a quick lunch or a wholesome side.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
- While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add broccoli, carrots, and red bell pepper, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in the sautéed vegetables, green onions, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
This dish shines with its vibrant mix of textures—fluffy quinoa paired with crunchy vegetables—and a bright finish from the lemon juice.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast the quinoa in a dry skillet for a few minutes before boiling to enhance its nutty taste.
Steamed Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your morning with a cozy bowl of Steamed Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal, where the warmth of cinnamon meets the sweetness of apples in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium apple, diced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
- Stir in 1 cup old-fashioned oats, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the diced apple, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the oatmeal steam for an additional 5 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp butter until melted and fully incorporated.
The gentle steaming process ensures the apples become perfectly tender while infusing the oatmeal with a rich, cinnamon-spiced aroma. It’s a morning ritual that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little maple syrup over the top before serving.
Conclusion
We hope this roundup of 18 delicious steam oven recipes inspires your healthy living journey! Each dish is a testament to how simple and flavorful steam oven cooking can be. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the joy of healthy cooking. Happy steaming!