I have never been good at steaming veggies because I don't have a steamer. I just haven't gotten one. I need to Anyway, I usually cook my fresh veggies in the microwave but I overcook them and they suck. So how do I steam without a steamer?

I often cook veggies in the microwave by putting them in a covered bowl with just a tablespoon of water. Most veggies, depending on the quantity, are done in under three minutes. Start with one minute and you can always add a minute. Don't forget that the veggies will continue to cook for a bit after the mic stops, so you want to do them a bit underdone.

Hope this helps.

Marlaine

I eat green beans a lot and I know (sorry) that this does not answer your steaming question but green beans taste very very good also lightly boiled like 4 minutes and then drain them and rinse under cold water until they are totallly cooled off. then do with them whatever you were planning! like today I did that and then finished them sauteeing with butter , garlic, and topped with parmesan.
yum!

Do you have a large seive or colander that fits over a deep pot without falling in?

Put just enough water in the pot to get a good boil going but little enough so it won't touch the bottom of the seive or colander. Add vegetables and cover with a lid. There! You've got yourself a steamer!

Karen

you probably all know this already, but its nice to salt the water you are cooking them in, or sprinkle salt on them once the steaming process has begun. It seems to keep a brighter green color which is more eye-appealing. Bill

thanks for all your help everyone, I am going to give it another try tonight!