You can save $0.03 for every cup of water boiled in a microwave versus on a stove-top.
That may not seem like much but for you pasta lovers out there, that can add up to a lot over the course of a year.
Therein, lies just half of the value microwaves bring us. The other half is the tremendous amount of time they can save you while cooking.
Still, microwaves get a bad rap. People tend to associate microwaves with unhealthy foods.
Pizza pockets, corn-dogs, 7/11 burritos – you get the picture.
Enter Microwave Veggies.
Microwave veggies are veggies steamed in a microwave. The process of “micro-steaming” veggies can lead to delicious, healthy meal components in a matter of minutes.
Here are some vegetables that cook extremely well in the microwave.
1) Broccoli
Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins K and C a microwave veggies favorite! You can throw broccoli in the microwave to get them ready for use in pasta, broccoli cheddar soup, and more!
To steam broccoli in the microwave, set them on a plate, cover them with a damp paper towel and let them cook on high for 2-6 minutes. We recommend starting at 2 minutes and then inching up from there.
Just be sure to periodically check that the consistency of the vegetable is to your liking.
2) Corn
Corn is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in the microwave as either kernels or in its husk.
For cooking in a husk, lightly wet the husk, cover it with a damp paper towel, and then microwave for 1 1/2 minutes per ear.
Kernels are a little more straightforward. Throw them in a bowl, dampen slightly and cook in 30-second increments until desired heat is achieved.
3) Artichoke
Artichokes are usually associated with boiling but a microwave can do an excellent job of cooking them as well. Cooking an artichoke in the microwave will take about 8 minutes.
Place the artichoke in a microwave safe bowl you can cover while cooking. Then, add roughly half a cup of white wine, thyme, and a dash of salt for best results.
4) Spinach
Spinach is great for use in salads, sandwiches, and in any other dish that calls for leafy greens. Microwaving spinach is straightforward and gives them a tender consistency that optimizes them for dishes served hot like pasta or chow-mien.
For best results, wash spinach, pat dry, then remove tough stems. Microwave in 30-second increments until desired consistency is reached.
5) Frozen Peas
Frozen peas are a microwave staple because they steam extremely well and are versatile. To steam frozen peas in the microwave, simply cover them with a damp paper towel and cook in 30-second increments until hot.
Wrapping Up Microwave Veggies
Microwaves save us time and money and can also provide healthy dishes for you and your family.
Next time you look at microwaves and associate them with corn-dogs, remember, microwaves can also steam you some delicious vegetables.
Microwaves are excellent tools to have in the kitchen but not all of them are created equal. That’s where our team at What Microwave comes in.
At What Microwave, we review microwaves to make sure that only the best of the best end up becoming your kitchen sidekick.
For information on the latest and greatest microwaves on the market check us out.
For more tips on cooking effectively with microwaves, read more of our cooking materials!
