While the microwave is often associated with reheating leftovers and making quick snacks, it can also be used to prepare a variety of delicious and nutritious meals. Here are some of the best meals you can cook in a microwave:
Steamed Vegetables: Place chopped vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap with a vent, then steam on high for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Baked Potatoes: Wash potatoes and pierce them with a fork. Microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are fully cooked and tender.
Omelette: Beat eggs in a microwave-safe bowl, add desired toppings like cheese, vegetables, or cooked bacon, and microwave on medium power for a minute at a time, stirring in between, until the omelette is set.
Mug Cakes: Mix ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, oil, milk, and any flavorings in a microwave-safe mug. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until the cake is cooked through.
Risotto: Combine Arborio rice, broth, vegetables, and seasonings in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for a few minutes, then stir and continue microwaving in short intervals, adding broth as needed until the rice is cooked and creamy.
Poached Fish: Place a piece of fish in a microwave-safe dish with a little broth, lemon juice, and herbs. Cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a vent, and cook on medium power until the fish is cooked through.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off bell peppers and stuff them with cooked rice, vegetables, and ground meat or beans. Place them in a microwave-safe dish with a little water, cover, and microwave until the peppers are tender.
Macaroni and Cheese: Cook macaroni in water in a microwave-safe bowl until al dente. Drain the water, then stir in cheese, milk, and seasonings. Microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally until the cheese is melted and creamy.
Steamed Fish with Vegetables: Place fish fillets on a microwave-safe plate, add some vegetables like carrots and broccoli, season, cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap, and steam until the fish is cooked through.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: Combine quinoa or rice with broth, vegetables, and seasonings in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on medium power until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.
Remember to use microwave-safe containers and covers, and adjust cooking times based on your microwave's wattage. While the microwave is convenient and quick, some dishes may require a bit of experimentation to get the cooking times and flavors just right.