Cooking in a microwave can be a convenient and budget-friendly way to prepare healthy meals. Here are some cheap and healthy foods that can be easily cooked in a microwave:
Sweet Potatoes: Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork, wrap them in a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 5-8 minutes until they are tender. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Oatmeal: Combine rolled oats with water or milk in a microwave-safe bowl and cook on high for 1-2 minutes. Add fruits, nuts, or honey for added flavor and nutrients.
Steamed Vegetables: Place fresh vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots in a microwave-safe dish with a little water. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent, and cook on high for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Eggs: You can make scrambled eggs by whisking eggs in a microwave-safe bowl and cooking on medium power for short intervals, stirring in between. For poached eggs, crack an egg into a microwave-safe bowl with water, cover, and microwave for about 1 minute until the egg white is set.
Brown Rice: Combine brown rice with water in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and cook on medium power for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Baked Potatoes: Wash the potatoes, prick them with a fork, wrap them in a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 5-10 minutes until they are cooked through.
Frozen Vegetables: Many frozen vegetable varieties come in microwave-safe bags that can be easily cooked by following the instructions on the package.
Fish: Season a fillet of fish and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on medium power for 3-5 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked.
Quinoa: Rinse quinoa and combine it with water or broth in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and cook on medium power for about 10-12 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
Mug Meals: There are many recipes available for microwaveable mug meals, including mug cakes, macaroni and cheese, and quiches, which can be made using inexpensive and nutritious ingredients.
Remember to use microwave-safe dishes and cover food when cooking to avoid splatters and uneven cooking. Cooking times may vary based on the wattage of your microwave, so adjust accordingly. These options are not only healthy but also quick and easy to prepare, making them suitable for those with busy schedules or limited access to a full kitchen.