Homemade General Mills Green Giant Mixed Vegetables Recipe: A Fresher, Healthier Take on a Classic

Category: Frozen Vegetables

Introduction

General Mills Green Giant Mixed Vegetables have been a staple in many households for decades, offering a convenient and flavorful way to include vegetables in meals. The original product, a blend of peas, carrots, corn, onions, and green beans, is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. However, many of us are looking for ways to make our diets healthier and more customizable. By creating a homemade version, we can enjoy the same delicious taste while controlling the ingredients, reducing sodium and added sugars, and incorporating fresh, seasonal produce.

This recipe not only mimics the original but enhances it with fresher ingredients and a more balanced flavor profile. Whether you’re a health-conscious parent, a foodie, or someone who loves to cook, this homemade version of Green Giant Mixed Vegetables is a game-changer.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own mixed vegetables at home offers several advantages:

• Freshness: Frozen vegetables are convenient, but they can lose some of their vibrant color and texture during the freezing process. This homemade version ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
• Customization: Tailor the recipe to your taste preferences by adjusting the proportions of each vegetable or adding new ones.
• Nutrition: Reduce sodium and added sugars while increasing the nutrient density with fresh, organic ingredients.
• Cost-Effective: Buying fresh vegetables in season can be more affordable than purchasing pre-packaged frozen mixes.

Personal Anecdote

I grew up on Green Giant Mixed Vegetables, which were a staple in my family’s freezer. My mom would often serve them as a quick side dish during busy weeknights. As I became more interested in cooking, I began to notice the sodium content and the lack of flexibility in the ingredients. One day, I decided to recreate the recipe from scratch using fresh vegetables from my local farmers’ market. The result was a vibrant, flavorful mix that tasted far superior to the store-bought version. My family raved about it, and I’ve never looked back since.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:15 minutes
• **Total Time:35 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables:

• 1.5 cups (150g) fresh peas (or 1 cup frozen, thawed)
• 1 cup (100g) fresh carrots, peeled and diced
• 0.5 cup (60g) fresh corn kernels (from 1 ear of corn)
• 0.5 cup (50g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 0.25 cup (30g) finely chopped fresh onion (optional)

Seasonings:

• 0.5 tsp (2g) salt (or to taste)
• 0.25 tsp (1g) sugar (optional, for flavor balance)
• 0.25 tsp (1g) garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp (1g) onion powder
• 0.25 tsp (1g) black pepper

Instructions

• Prep the Vegetables:

• Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.

  • Peel and dice the carrots.
  • Trim and cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces.
  • Remove the kernels from the corn.
  • Finely chop the onion if using.

• Blanch the Vegetables:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 cups of water with 1 tbsp of salt).

  • Add the carrots and green beans to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
  • Remove the carrots and green beans with a slotted spoon and immediately submerge them in an ice bath to stop cooking.

• Cook the Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of water over medium heat.

  • Add the peas, corn, and onion (if using) to the skillet.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

• Combine the Vegetables:

• Drain the blanched carrots and green beans well and add them to the skillet with the peas, corn, and onion.

  • Stir to combine.

• Season to Taste:

• Sprinkle the salt, sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the vegetables.

  • Stir well to coat evenly.
  • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

• Cool and Freeze (Optional):

• Let the vegetable mixture cool to room temperature.

  • Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Place the sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours to flash freeze the vegetables.
  • Transfer the frozen vegetables to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Omit the added salt or reduce it to a pinch.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick.
• Herb-Infused Version: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added depth.
• Lemon-Garlic Version: Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice and add an extra sprinkle of garlic powder.

Pro Tips

• Blanching 101: Blanching helps retain the color and texture of the vegetables. Shocking them in an ice bath after blanching is crucial to stop the cooking process.
• Seasoning Balance: The small amount of sugar helps balance the natural bitterness of some vegetables, creating a more rounded flavor.
• Freezing Technique: Flash freezing ensures that the vegetables don’t stick together, making it easier to portion them out later.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Q: Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

  • A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Thaw them first and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

• Q: How long can I store the homemade version?

  • A: When properly frozen, the homemade mixed vegetables can last up to 6 months.

• Q: Can I add other vegetables to the mix?

  • A: Absolutely! Try adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added variety.

• Q: Is this recipe suitable for all dietary preferences?

  • A: Yes, this recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories, making it suitable for most dietary needs.

• Q: Can I scale the recipe for larger batches?

  • A: Yes, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and adjust cooking time as needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or tofu.
• Add to soups, casseroles, or stir-fries for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use as a topping for salads or wraps.
• Mix into omelets or frittatas for a colorful breakfast option.

Conclusion

This homemade version of General Mills Green Giant Mixed Vegetables is a healthier, tastier alternative to the store-bought variety. With its customizable ingredients, reduced sodium, and vibrant flavor, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Share your creations and let me know how you make this recipe your own!