The colorful combination and Asian-inspired flavors make this side dish a pleasure to whip up for a weeknight dinner.

Makes 4 servings, 3/4 cup each

ACTIVE TIME: 20 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 20 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

8 ounces sugar snap peas, trimmed (about 2 cups)
1 small red bell pepper, cut into strips (about 1 cup)
1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Bring 2 inches of water to a boil in a pan. Put peas, bell pepper and carrot in a steamer basket and place in the pan. Cover and steam, stirring once, until crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl; add soy sauce, oil, sesame seeds and pepper; toss to coat. Serve warm.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 81 calories; 4 g fat (1 g sat, 2 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 9 g carbohydrate; 2 g protein; 3 g fiber; 157 mg sodium.
Nutrition bonus: Vitamin A (120% daily value), Vitamin C (90% dv).