Whether you’re hungry for a hearty snack, a sweet treat, or a simple supper, tons of tasty recipes can be made with a few simple ingredients and a microwave.
The convenience of microwaves is undeniable, but there’s another perk to this cooking method. Harvard researchers found that microwaves do a great job of preserving the nutrients found in fruit and veggies, especially when compared to other methods of cooking.
That’s because certain nutrients break down when they’re exposed to heat – whether it is from a microwave, a regular oven, or cooking on the stove. But, because microwave cooking times are shorter, more nutrients are preserved during the cooking process.
Check out the ideas below for microwaveable recipes that are fuss-free, healthy, and full of flavor.
Scrambled Eggs
You can make fluffy scrambled eggs without a skillet. Start by cracking two eggs in a microwave-safe bowl or even a ceramic coffee cup. Add a few spoonfuls of water or milk, then season with salt and pepper and mix ingredients with a fork.
You could also add some precooked sausage, a sprinkle of cheese, or diced veggies to make it an omelet.
Three-Ingredient Fudge
We aren’t fudging…you can make this treat in less than three minutes! Sweet-tooth-approved, this fudge is the perfect pick-me-up and also makes a great gift.
Combine 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 14 oz of condensed milk, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract in a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat until the ingredients are smooth. Line a small pan or dish with wax paper then spread the mixture on top. Add chopped nuts if desired. Cool in the refrigerator or freezer. Cut into small squares and enjoy!
Microwave “Baked” Potato
When you’re short on time or patience, waiting an hour or more for an oven-baked potato can seem like a tall order. But, the good news is there’s no need to wait! You can have a perfectly microwaved baked potato in a little more than 10 minutes.
Here’s how:
Pierce a potato with a fork several times and set the potato on a plate. If your microwave has a baked potato button, use that. If not, microwave the potato on high for 5 minutes, then rotate and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove your potato and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the potato in half, then top with sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, broccoli, or other ingredients you enjoy. Looking to add some extra protein? Top your spud with sliced turkey, ham, or diced chicken.
Microwave Granola
This easy recipe tastes just like baked granola but without the wait and washing up – all you need is a coffee mug.
Try adding granola to some greek yogurt and fresh fruit or even on top of some ice cream.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (honey or agave)
- 2 teaspoons water
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- ⅛ teaspoons salt*
- 4 ½ tablespoons rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon dried coconut
- 1 tablespoon pecans, chopped
Directions
In the large microwave-safe mug, mix maple syrup, water, oil, salt, oats, and nuts until blended.
Microwave for 1 minute, 30 seconds and stir, making sure to stir up any syrup on the bottom of the mug.
Microwave for 1 minute longer or until oats are golden brown. You will see them getting golden in color and starting to toast up. Be careful it doesn’t get too hot as it can burn.
Let it stand for 2 to 3 minutes to cool before eating. If you have extra, store in an airtight container for 5 days.
Recipe from Bigger Bolder Baking
Chipotle Ranch Chicken Tacos
You’ll be the tac’o-the-town with this microwave fiesta! This recipe uses a rotisserie chicken and store-bought pico de gallo to keep things simple.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups frozen corn, thawed
- 1/4 cup pico de gallo
- 8 taco shells, warmed
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 6 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chipotle ranch salad dressing
- 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and thinly sliced
Directions
- Combine the chicken, corn, and pico de gallo in a small microwave-safe dish. Cover and cook on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Spoon chicken mixture into taco shells. Top with remaining ingredients.
Recipe from Taste of Home
Frozen Banana Coins
For a quick and easy frozen treat, this one is hard to beat! Simply melt semi-sweet chocolate chips with a small amount of coconut oil in a small microwave-safe bowl. Use a fork to dip slices of banana in the chocolate until coated and place on wax paper. Leave plain or top with sea salt, shredded coconut, or sprinkles. Stick the banana slices in the fridge or freezer for 30 minutes until the chocolate is set.
For a variation, try adding peanut or almond butter to the bananas before coating them with chocolate.
Senior Living Made Easy
At Senior Star, we believe that the good things in life don’t have to be complicated.
Don’t feel like cooking? We’ve all been there! That’s why our communities offer Anytime Dining. Residents can enjoy a variety of menu options when it is convenient for them. No need to make reservations, simply head to the dining room when you are ready to eat.
Our Senior Living Specialists are here to help you find a community where you can thrive – a place where you can enjoy freedom, fun, and fulfillment. It’s the lifestyle you want for the retirement you deserve.
Contact us to learn more or to schedule your virtual or in-person tour.