How to Make the Most of Your Microwave

Don’t limit your use of the microwave to simply reheating leftovers or nuking expensive prepackaged meals. This often overlooked kitchen appliance is a surprisingly versatile tool for the busy cook.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. To toast almonds in your microwave for a quick snack, place 1 cup sliced almonds in a 2 cup microwave-safe container. Microwave uncovered for 1 minute, then stir. Continue to heat for an additional 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. Remove the nuts and spread on a paper towel to cool.
2. To quickly prepare ground meat in your microwave, crumble 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey in a microwave-safe casserole dish. Heat on high for 4 to 6 minutes or until the meat appears to be thoroughly cooked. Drain off the excess fat before adding the meat to your recipe.
3. Baked potatoes make a great side dish. To make baked potatoes without heating up your oven, prick potatoes with a fork and microwave uncovered on high power until almost tender. Using this method, it takes just 4 to 6 minutes to bake a single potato.
4. When you’re baking cookies, cakes, or other desserts, quickly melt chocolate by placing 1 cup semisweet or milk chocolate pieces into a small microwave safe bowl. Heat uncovered on medium-high for 1 minute, then stir. Microwave for an additional 1 ½ to 3 minutes until the chocolate is completely melted, stirring as needed.