Cooking something quick for one person (or even a family) can sometimes seem tricky and like too much fuss. Too many pots, pans and ingredients and by the time we’re finished it didn’t feel like it was worth all the effort. This is where the microwave becomes a really great asset, especially when cooking for one, because who wants to spend more time washing up than enjoying their food? All these recipes are for one person and cooked in no time using minimal equipment.
Note: please be aware that the dishes used will become hot, so use a tea towel or oven gloves to remove dishes from the microwave.
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1
Popcorn:
Ingredients
50g popcorn kernels
Salt or sugar for topping
Paper bag
How it’s done:
1) Put the kernels into a paper bag and fold several times to close it
2) Put the bag into the microwave set on “high” and cook for around 2-4 minutes
3) Listen for the “popping” sound of the corn, when it starts to slow down it’s time to take the popcorn out
4) Pour into a bowl and top with salt or sugar (or both)
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2
Steamed Broccoli:
Ingredients
Broccoli
3tbsp waterHow it’s done:
1) Cut the broccoli into florets
2) Place it into a large bowl
3) Add the water
4) Cover tightly and microwave for 3 minutes
5) The broccoli should now be cooked but still retain a little crunch
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3
Macaroni Cheese:
Ingredients
70g dried macaroni
125ml water
60ml milk
55g grated cheddar
Salt & pepperHow it’s done:
1) Place the pasta with the water and a pinch of salt into a bowl
2) Place into the microwave and cook for two minutes on a “high” setting
3) Take the bowl out and mix the pasta and water to prevent sticking
4) Microwave for another 2 minutes, stir again, then cook for another 2 minutes
5) Now stir in the milk and cheese
6) Cook for another minute until the cheese is melted
7) Give it a final stir and add a little ground pepper before serving
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4
Cup Omelette:
Ingredients
2 large eggs
1tbsp milk
1tsp chopped chives
Salt & pepperHow it’s done:
1) Crack the eggs into a cup and whisk with a fork
2) Add the milk and whisk again
3) Add the salt, pepper and chives and whisk until combined
4) Place into the microwave and cook for 1 minute
5) Stir the omelette and cook for another 30 seconds
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5
Chocolate Mug Brownie:
(from BBC Good Food)
Ingredients
4tbsp self-raising flour
4tbsp caster sugar
2tbsp cocoa powder
3tbsp milk
3tbsp sunflower oil
1 medium egg
Whipped cream to topHow it’s done:
1) Mix the flour, sugar and cocoa in a very large mug
2) Add the milk, oil and egg and mix until all combined and smooth
3) Place the mug in the microwave and cook for 1 ½ to 2 minutes until the top is firm to the touch
4) Leave to cool for a few minutes
5) Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream and serve
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6
Crispy Bacon:
The cooking times here will vary depending on thickness of the bacon
Ingredients
BaconHow it’s done:
1) Place 3 sheets of kitchen paper onto a plate
2) Place the bacon slices on top of the paper in a single layer
3) Now place another 3 sheets of paper on top
4) Microwave the bacon for 2 minutes on a “high” setting
5) Carefully check how well the bacon is done and if needed cook further in 30-second increments
6) As soon as the bacon is done remove it from the kitchen paper
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7
Creamy Polenta:
Ingredients
250ml water
50g polenta
1tbsp whole milk
Salt, pepper, a drizzle of olive oilHow it’s done:
1) Put the polenta, water and a pinch of salt into a bowl and mix
2) Place into the microwave, set on “high” and cook for 3 minutes
3) Mix the polenta with a fork and add the milk
4) Cook for another minute
5) Give it another stir and serve drizzled with a little olive oil and a little ground pepper
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8
Steamed Salmon:
Ingredients
Around 200g salmon filets
Salt, pepper, a drizzle of lemon juiceFor serving
Fresh cucumber
Fresh dill
Greek yoghurt
Salt & pepper
Fresh lemon sliceHow it’s done:
1) Season the salmon with a little salt, pepper and lemon juice
2) Place the salmon on a plate and cover with cling film
3) Put the plate into the microwave and cook for 3 to 3 ½ minutes
4) Mix the Greek yoghurt with salt, pepper and some finely chopped cucumber
5) Slice some more cucumber and chop some dill to top with
6) Serve hot or cold
