Convenient, time-saving and totally safe to use, the humble microwave is an underrated piece of kitchen kit. Plus, it’s one of the most energy-efficient ways to cook, meaning it can help you cut down on your energy bill, too.
Microwaving is not just great for reheating lovely leftovers, you can actually cook a nutritious meal in it, from scratch! Plus, it’s an absolute game-changer when it comes to knocking out last-minute desserts. So whether you’re after entire meals to cook in the microwave or speedy puds, we’ve got you covered. Read on for our top microwave recipes.
Made entirely in the microwave, this flavour-packed chilli couldn’t be easier to rustle up. With soft butternut squash, creamy beans and a delicious quick salsa for a zing of freshness, it’s a thing of joy! What’s more, each portion contains three of your 5-a-day – a midweek winner.
SWEET POTATO & CHICKPEA MICROWAVE CURRY
Curry night just got even more exciting with this microwave veggie curry – we’re talking minimal energy use, maximum flavour. Complete with creamy chickpeas, microwave fluffy rice and cooling yoghurt, this is sure to become a firm family favourite. Feel free to swap the chickpeas for butter beans, cannellini beans or kidney beans, if you like.
There’s no need to turn the oven on to cook beautifully soft sweet potatoes. Simply prick all over and microwave them instead. You’ll have tender potatoes in 10 minutes flat, which you can then toss through salads, or transform into these veg-packed quesadillas that are finished on the hob.
If you’ve got guests coming over, these cheeky little puds are great for getting ahead of the game. The day before your dinner party, decant the batter into teacups and leave in the fridge overnight. Then, simply cook to order – dessert, done!
When you’re short on time, these speedy chocolate pots will serve you right. With a fluffy chocolate sponge and oozy centre, they feel super-luxurious for minimum fuss. Feel free to swap in your favourite chocolate bar, or add a swig of something stronger! Check out the Flavour Boost section for inspiration.
Cooking a sweet, sticky pudding can be a labour of love, but this cracker of a recipe certainly isn’t. By using the magic of the microwave, you’ll have a proper treacle pud in minutes. Plus, we’re heroing store-cupboard staples here, so it’s easy on the wallet, too.
Looking to get more bang for your buck in the kitchen? Head to our budget-friendly hub.