How to Make Spinach in the Microwave

Cooking spinach in the microwave is quick, easy, and retains the nutrients that make spinach a superfood. Whether you’re a busy professional or a novice cook, this method will help you prepare delicious and healthy spinach in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making spinach in the microwave.

Why Microwave Spinach?

Microwaving spinach is a convenient cooking method that:

Saves time and effort
Preserves the nutrients and vibrant color of the spinach
Requires minimal equipment and clean-up

What You Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients and tools:

Fresh spinach (washed and dried)
A microwave-safe bowl
A microwave-safe lid or plate to cover the bowl
A splash of water (optional)
Salt and pepper (optional)
Olive oil, butter, or any preferred seasoning (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Spinach:
- Wash the spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit.
- Pat the spinach dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
Place in a Microwave-Safe Bowl:
- Put the washed and dried spinach into a microwave-safe bowl. If you have a large batch, you might need to cook it in batches.
Add Water (Optional):
- Adding a splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons) can help create steam, but it’s not necessary as spinach contains a lot of water.
Cover the Bowl:
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate. This helps trap steam and cook the spinach evenly.
Microwave the Spinach:
- Place the bowl in the microwave.
- Set the microwave on high and cook for 2-3 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the microwave’s power and the amount of spinach.
Check for Doneness:
- After 2 minutes, check the spinach. It should be wilted and bright green. If it’s not fully cooked, microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Season the Spinach:
- Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot).
- Drain any excess water if necessary.
- Add salt, pepper, and any preferred seasonings like olive oil, butter, or garlic. Toss the spinach gently to combine.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Your microwave-cooked spinach is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it as a side dish, mix it into pasta, or add it to soups and salads.

Tips for Perfect Microwave Spinach

Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach works best for this method. Pre-packaged spinach can also be used, but make sure it’s washed and dried.
Don’t Overcook: Spinach cooks quickly in the microwave. Overcooking can make it mushy and less appealing.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Lemon juice, red pepper flakes, or Parmesan cheese can add extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Spinach is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and fiber. Microwaving spinach helps retain these nutrients better than boiling.

Conclusion

Making spinach in the microwave is an easy, fast, and healthy way to enjoy this nutritious green. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can have a delicious side dish ready in minutes. Whether you’re adding it to your favorite recipes or enjoying it on its own, microwave-cooked spinach is a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. Happy cooking!