Vegetable Medley Recipe

Wash all vegetables. Cut broccoli and cauliflower into bite-size florets. Peel and slice carrots into 1/4-inch rounds. Trim ends from sugar snap peas or green beans. Seed and slice red bell pepper into 1/2-inch strips. If using baby corn, rinse and halve lengthwise if large.

Mince garlic and zest the lemon (if using). Measure out broth, oil, butter and seasonings.

Sauté aromatics

In a large wide skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. When the butter melts and starts to foam, add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Add firmer vegetables

Add the carrots, broccoli and cauliflower to the pan. Toss to coat in the oil and butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3–4 minutes to begin browning the edges.

Steam to finish

Add the vegetable broth (or water), cover the pan with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and steam for 4–5 minutes until carrots are tender-crisp and broccoli/cauliflower are bright and easily pierced with a fork.

Add remaining vegetables

Remove the lid, add the red bell pepper, sugar snap peas (or green beans) and baby corn (if using). Stir to combine and cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened and the peas are bright and crisp-tender.

Stir in the lemon juice, honey (or maple), soy sauce (or tamari), dried thyme and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss and cook 1–2 minutes to allow flavors to marry and some liquid to reduce slightly.

Taste and adjust seasoning — add a touch more lemon for brightness, salt for depth, or honey for balance.

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle in the chopped parsley, toasted sliced almonds, and lemon zest (if using). Give a final gentle toss to distribute garnish.

Transfer the vegetable medley to a warm serving dish and serve immediately as a side. This pairs well with grilled proteins or grain-based mains.

Leftovers: cool to room temperature, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.