When it comes to cooking with frozen vegetables, many people assume that the result will be bland and unappetizing. But with a little creativity and some simple recipe ideas, you can turn frozen veggies into delicious meals that are perfect for any time of day or night. From hearty soups to quick stir-fries, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of frozen vegetables.
In this article, we’ll share a range of tasty and easy-to-make dishes that incorporate frozen veggies as the main ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a satisfying meal, we have something for everyone. So let’s get started!
Garlic Butter Frozen Green Beans
Elevate your frozen green beans game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the convenience of a quick side dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, these flavorful green beans are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen green beans
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Spread the frozen green beans on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic until well combined.
5. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the green beans, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the green beans are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake
A delicious and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of broccoli, cauliflower, and cheese to create a satisfying and healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the vegetables.
5. Top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Stir-Fried Frozen Mixed Vegetables
Quickly revamp your frozen veggies into a flavorful and spicy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the frozen vegetables, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are thawed and slightly tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Frozen Peas and Mushroom Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the freshness of frozen peas with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and comforting sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add frozen peas and cook until thawed, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta with mushroom-pea sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Frozen Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of frozen Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen Brussels sprouts, thawed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. While the sprouts are roasting, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cooked bacon and garlic.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Corn and Black Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of frozen corn with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, black beans, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Quick Frozen Vegetable Soup
A delicious and healthy soup that’s perfect for a quick meal or snack. This recipe is ideal for using up leftover vegetables and can be customized to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the frozen vegetables, vegetable broth, and water to the saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, feta, and chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach and feta.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Frozen Vegetable Curry
This recipe is a quick and flavorful way to use up your frozen vegetables and make a delicious, comforting curry. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a tasty meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the frozen vegetables, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Carrot and Pea Rice Pilaf
This vibrant pilaf is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, made with frozen carrots and peas, fragrant rice, and a hint of garlic. It’s an easy and healthy side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen carrots and peas
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and frozen carrots and peas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Vegetable Frittata
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast that’s perfect for any time of year! This Frozen Vegetable Frittata is an easy and versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in an 8-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Add frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in egg mixture and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle cheese on top and transfer skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Frozen Green Beans
Transform frozen green beans into a flavorful and crispy side dish with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen green beans, thawed
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the green beans, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the green bean mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the green beans are tender and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Mixed Veggie Stir Fry with Tofu
Get ready to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal in just a few minutes! This recipe combines the convenience of frozen mixed veggies with the protein-rich goodness of tofu, all wrapped up in a savory stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, frozen vegetables, soy sauce, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of frozen cauliflower! This recipe is a perfect blend of comforting pasta, creamy sauce, and nutritious veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups frozen cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni, frozen cauliflower, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Vegetable and Chickpea Stew
Looking for a nutritious and comforting meal that’s ready in no time? This stew is perfect for a chilly evening, packed with the sweetness of frozen vegetables and the creaminess of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 bag frozen mixed vegetables (10 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, frozen vegetables, and thyme.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Frozen Peas and Mint Risotto
A refreshing twist on traditional risotto, this recipe combines the sweetness of frozen peas with the brightness of fresh mint. Perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When peas are tender, stir in chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the convenience of frozen broccoli, this recipe comes together quickly and easily, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen broccoli florets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the frozen broccoli, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning it to the pot.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Frozen Vegetable Pot Pie
Transform your leftover veggies into a warm, comforting pot pie that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, butter, chicken broth, milk, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add frozen vegetables to the mixture and stir until they’re well coated.
4. Roll out pie crust and place it in a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish.
5. Pour the vegetable mixture into the pie crust.
6. Brush the edges of the crust with a little water and cover with another piece of pie crust or a pie shield.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Frozen Vegetable Pot Pie!
Frozen Corn and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are the perfect way to use up frozen corn and zucchini from your summer harvest. With a hint of garlic and lemon, they make a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the grated zucchini, frozen corn kernels, egg, lemon juice, and minced garlic to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
4. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
• 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm, creamy, and slightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the ease and convenience of cooking with frozen vegetables! This collection of 20 quick and delicious recipes showcases the versatility of frozen veggies. From garlic butter green beans to creamy pasta dishes, spicy stir-fries, and hearty soups, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try roasting Brussels sprouts with bacon or making a flavorful vegetable curry. Even stuffed chicken, frittatas, and dips are on the menu! Get creative with these easy and tasty recipes that highlight the benefits of using frozen vegetables in your cooking routine.
