Calories in Steamed Vegetables
In recent years, steamed vegetables have become a popular way to get a healthy meal on the table quickly and easily. But just how many calories are in a serving of steamed vegetables? Read on to learn more.
Calorie Contents of Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are generally considered to be one of the lower-calorie options for a healthy meal. A cup of steamed broccoli, for example, contains just 31 calories. Other commonly steamed vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and cauliflower, contain up to 40 calories per cup. In comparison, a cup of cooked white rice has 242 calories, and a cup of French fries contains around 365 calories.
Tips for Keeping Calories Low
One way to keep the calories to a minimum when steaming vegetables is to avoid adding high-calorie sauces or dressings. While these can add flavor to a meal, they can also add a significant amount of calories. To keep the calorie count low, try seasoning steamed vegetables with herbs, spices, or light citrus juices.
Another way to keep calorie consumption low is to portion sizes. A cup per person is usually plenty, since many vegetables can be fairly filling due to their fiber and water content. Eating large portions of steamed vegetables can cause overeating, and thus can add additional calories intake.
Nutritional Benefits of Steamed Vegetables
Despite their low calorie count, steamed vegetables offer plenty of nutritional benefits. In particular, steaming helps to preserve the nutrients in vegetables, such as vitamins and minerals, that may be lost during boiling. They are also an excellent source of fiber, and many vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, have powerful antioxidants that can help support a healthy immune system.
Conclusion
Steamed vegetables have become a popular choice for those looking for a healthy meal, due to their low number of calories and their nutritional benefits. To keep calories low, it’s important to watch portion sizes, and to avoid using high-calorie sauces and dressings. Keeping these tips in mind will help ensure that your steamed vegetable meals are tasty and nutritious without being overly caloric.
