steam broccoli in ninja foodi

How to Steam Vegetables in the Ninja Foodi

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Ninja Foodi steamed veggies: easy & quick. Plus a perfect steamed broccoli recipe. In the quest for healthy and delicious side dishes that come together in a flash, look no further than your Ninja Foodi multicooker. For all the broccoli fans out there, I’ve got a dedicated recipe to show you exactly how to steam vegetables in the Ninja Foodi. So, grab your multicooker, and your favorite veggies, and get ready to whip up a tasty and nutritious side dish that will leave you wanting more. Steaming vegetables is an incredibly easy, quick, and versatile method that unlocks a world of nutrient-rich possibilities. Plus, I’ve included a handy steam chart to help you master steaming a variety of vegetables to perfection, making it a go-to technique for all your Ninja Foodi recipes.

Steaming vegetables isn’t just about convenience, it’s about preserving the vibrant colors, nutrients, and flavors you crave. Explore a world of healthy possibilities with your Ninja Foodi’s steam function, and discover a tastier way to get your daily dose of veggies.

Ninja Foodi with steamed broccoli on  a plate

Unlock the perfect texture for all your favorite vegetables, not just broccoli florets, with your multicooker’s steam function.

Simple Ingredients for Healthy Steamed Vegetables

This ingredient list is as simple as the steaming process itself. Gather up a few fresh ingredients and get ready to unlock a world of healthy and flavorful sides.

  • 12 oz or 3/4 lb fresh broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil, or avocado oil
  • salt & black pepper to taste
fresh broccoli in a bowl with salt pepper water and oil

Can You Steam Vegetables in an Air Fryer

The short answer is yes!

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The longer answer is yes with the Ninja Foodi all-in-one appliance. The Ninja Foodi is a multicooker that truly lives up to its name. It’s a versatile countertop device that combines the functionalities of several kitchen appliances into one, saving you space and streamlining your meal prep. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

  • Pressure Cooker
  • Air Fryer
  • Steamer
  • Additional Functions:  Many Ninja Foodi models offer additional functionalities like broiling and baking.

Overall, the Ninja Foodi’s versatility makes it a one-stop shop for a variety of cooking methods. It can pressure cook, air fry, steam, broil, and bake, giving you the ability to prepare a wide range of dishes without needing multiple appliances.

ninja foodi pressure cooker air fryer steamer all in one multi cooker

How to Steam Vegetables in the Ninja Foodi

First, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the broccoli into similar-sized pieces. Florets work best for even steaming, but whatever the shape, make sure the pieces are similar in size for even cooking.

Then, in a large bowl, combine the broccoli, the oil, and the seasoning. I am using simple salt and pepper, but feel free to use any of your favorite spice blends. Toss to coat.

fresh broccoli in a bowl with avocado oil

Next, pour one cup of cold water into the bottom of the Foodi pot.

water in ninja foodi air crisp basket

Then transfer the broccoli to the steamer basket. This is the same as the crisp basket that is used in all of our air fryer recipes. 

broccoli in steamer basket

Next, secure the pressure lid onto the Ninja Food.

ninja foodi with pressure lid secured

Set the release valve to ‘vent’.

foodi pressure release valve set to vent

Next, select the steamer function, and set the cooking time for 4 minutes. Press start. 

how long to steam vegetables in the ninja foodi steamer with steam function

Steaming Vegetables in Ninja Foodi

When you steam vegetables in the Ninja Foodi, you will hear a hissing sound as the appliance heats up, and steam will continue to release from the release valve. When the Ninja Foodi steamer reaches its desired high pressure the clock will start to count down. 

The red button will come up for the duration of the cooking process, and the steam will continue to release from the valve. When finished, the red button will drop letting you know that it is safe to remove the lid.

steamed broccoli in ninja foodi air crisp basket

In just a fraction of the time you will have a perfect healthy side dish.

steamed vegetables broccoli in bowl with gray and white dish towel and ninja foodi

Ninja Foodi Steamed Vegetables

The Easiest Way to Steam Veggies:  This Ninja Foodi steaming method is not only incredibly quick and convenient, but it also preserves the vibrant colors, nutrients, and flavors of your vegetables. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal planning.

simple steamed broccoli recipe in white dish

Perfect for Meal Prep: Steamed vegetables are a fantastic base for healthy meal prep bowls or salads. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and enjoy them throughout the week.

ninja foodi steamed vegetables instructions with broccoli

Great Side for a Healthy Dinner: Whip up a batch of perfectly steamed veggies alongside your favorite protein for a complete and nutritious meal. Their bright colors and tender texture will add vibrancy and flavor to any plate.

cooed broccoli in bowl with fork

Fresh Vegetables are Best: Remember, for the best results, use fresh, high-quality veggies.

Now that you know how to steam vegetables in your Ninja Foodi, get ready to explore a world of healthy and delicious possibilities.

bright green cooked broccoli in white bowl

Ninja Foodi Steam Chart

While broccoli florets are the easiest vegetables to make, your Ninja Foodi’s steam basket is ready to take on a whole vegetable orchestra. Here are some other veggie options that steam beautifully in your multicooker: green beans, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, bell peppers, and any other vegetable medley. 

VegetableCook Time – MinutesNotes
Asparagus spears (thin)2-3Aim for vibrant green and crisp-tender texture
Asparagus spears (thick)3-4Adjust time based on thickness of asparagus.
Broccoli florets3-4Achieve tender florets with a slight bite.
Green beans3-4Aim for crisp-tender green beans.
Cauliflower florets4-5Steam for tender florets with a slight bite.
Baby carrots5-7Achieve tender-crisp carrots with a touch of sweetness.
Brussels sprouts (halved)4-6Adjust time based on desired tenderness.
Bell peppers (strips)3-4Steam for tender-crisp peppers.
Ninja Foodi Steam Chart

Ninja Foodi Steaming Tips:

  • Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for best results.
  • Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even steaming.
  • Start with less water and adjust based on your desired amount of remaining moisture in the vegetables.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to add extra flavor to your steamed vegetables.
  • This chart provides approximate times. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and maturity of your vegetables, as well as your specific Ninja Foodi model.
How to Steam Vegetables in the Ninja Foodi

How to Steam Vegetables in the Ninja Foodi

Yield: 3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 4 minutes

See how to steam vegetables in the Ninja Foodi to make the best steamed broccoli. Quick and easy side dish in minutes, plus steam chart!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz or 3/4 lb fresh broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil, or avocado oil
  • salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare veggies. Wash trim, and cut if needed into similar size pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, oil and seasoning of choice
  3. Transfer to the Ninja Foodi air crisp basket.
  4. Secure the pressure cook lid, and set the valve to 'vent'
  5. Select the steam function, and set the cook time to 4 minutes. Press start.
  6. the Foodi will heat up and steam will continuously be released from the valve throughout the cooking process
  7. When the broccoli is done the red button will drop and the countdown will finish.
  8. Carefully, release the lid and enjoy.

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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 3 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 123Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 244mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 3g

nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on products/ingredients used.

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