Caribbean Christmas Mixed Vegetable Recipe
This Christmas, add a burst of tropical flavor to your festive feast with a Caribbean-inspired mixed vegetable dish. Packed with vibrant colors, fresh produce, and bold spices, this recipe is perfect as a side for your holiday spread. Easy to prepare and full of nutrients, it’s a delicious way to celebrate the season with a tropical twist.
Caribbean Mixed Vegetable Medley
Ingredients:
1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
1 cup zucchini, cubed
1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
1 tsp all-purpose Caribbean seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
A squeeze of lime juice
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Vegetables:
Wash and cut all vegetables into even pieces for uniform cooking. - Sauté Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. - Cook the Vegetables:
Add carrots and green beans first, as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
Toss in zucchini and bell peppers. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes until all vegetables are tender yet slightly crisp.
- Season the Dish:
Sprinkle thyme, Caribbean seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional minute. - Finish with Lime and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
This Caribbean mixed vegetable medley pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, grilled fish, or a vegetarian main course. Serve it warm in a colorful dish to highlight the vibrant vegetables, and watch it become a centerpiece of your holiday table.
Why Choose Caribbean Flavors for Christmas?
Caribbean cuisine is known for its bold spices, fresh herbs, and bright ingredients that celebrate the abundance of nature. This recipe not only adds variety to your meal but also ensures your guests enjoy a healthy and flavorful side dish. The combination of thyme, smoked paprika, and lime juice creates a balance of warmth and zest, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success:
Cut Uniformly: Ensure all vegetables are evenly cut to avoid uneven cooking.
Customize: Swap in other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or squash for added variety.
Make Ahead: You can chop the vegetables and prepare the seasoning in advance to save time on Christmas Day.
This Christmas, bring the sunny flavors of the Caribbean to your festive table with this vibrant mixed vegetable recipe. It’s a side dish that’s not just easy to make but also guaranteed to impress your guests.
