Steamed Edamame
A quick and healthy appetizer ready in minutes. These vibrant green soybean pods are steamed until tender-crisp and sprinkled with flaky sea salt for the perfect savory snack.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the steamer
- a.Place a steamer basket inside a large pot. Add about 1 inch of water, ensuring the water level remains below the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- 2
Steam the edamame
- a.Carefully place the frozen edamame pods into the steamer basket in an even layer. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a steady steam, and cook for 5-7 minutes. The pods will turn a vibrant bright green and the beans inside should be tender-crisp.
- 3
Season and serve
- a.Using tongs, carefully transfer the hot edamame to a serving bowl. Immediately sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt and toss to coat evenly. Serve warm with a separate empty bowl on the side for the discarded pods.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To check for doneness, carefully remove one pod and bite into a bean. It should be tender but still have a slight pop.
- 2If you don't have a steamer basket, you can boil the edamame. Add them to a pot of boiling salted water and cook for 3-5 minutes, then drain well before seasoning.
- 3Serve with an empty bowl on the side for the discarded pods. To eat, bring a pod to your mouth, and gently squeeze or bite to pop the beans out.
- 4Leftover edamame can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold or reheated.
- 5If using fresh edamame, rinse them well and steam for 4-5 minutes, as they cook slightly faster than frozen.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Garlic Edamame
Toss the steamed edamame with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Lemon Herb EdamameLemon Herb Edamame
After steaming, toss the edamame with the zest of one lemon, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, and a drizzle of olive oil before salting.
Furikake EdamameFurikake Edamame
Sprinkle the steamed edamame with Japanese furikake seasoning instead of plain salt for a boost of umami flavor from sesame seeds and seaweed.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Edamame is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent choice for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, especially for those on vegetarian or vegan diets.
High in Dietary Fiber
A single serving provides a significant amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness to help with weight management, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Edamame is a good source of essential nutrients like folate, vitamin K, manganese, and iron, which are vital for blood cell formation, bone health, and energy production.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, steamed edamame is very healthy. It is an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients like folate, vitamin K, and manganese. It's also low in calories and saturated fat, making it a great choice for a nutritious snack.