QUICK, cheap and easy to use, microwaves can be your ultimate mealtime hero.
In just minutes, you can tuck into a host of affordable recipes.
Check these out for inspiration and see how microwaving costs a fraction of the price of cooking by oven or hob.
LUNCHTIME QUICHE: Tear a slice of white bread and a slice of ham into bite-size pieces.
Slice four cherry tomatoes and grate 10g of cheese. Beat two eggs and mix all ingredients in a microwavable bowl.
Cook for five minutes on medium heat, checking after three minutes.
Recipe cost: While this recipe makes one serving, buying all the ingredients will set you back £5.55 — and leave you with enough left over to make two more.
Microwave cost: 2p (5 mins).
Oven cost: 21p (20 mins).
QUICK DINNER: This pearl barley risotto is really tasty.
In a microwavable bowl, mix 350g of pearl barley, a 400g tin of chopped tomatoes, 500ml veg stock and a clove or two of crushed garlic.
Cover with cling film and microwave on high for ten minutes, stirring halfway through and leaving to rest for two minutes. Add 50g of frozen peas and 100ml of water.
Cover and zap for five minutes until liquid is absorbed. Mix through 50g of crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Recipe cost: Makes four servings at £1.37 each.
Microwave cost: 6p (15 mins).
Hob cost: 22p (30 mins).
PUDDING SORTED: Easy lemon sponge. Mix 120g of caster sugar, 120g of softened butter, 120g of self-raising flour and the zest from a lemon in a microwave-proof dish.
Heat on high for five minutes and leave to stand for ten minutes.
Recipe cost: Makes six servings at around 87p each.
Microwave cost: 2p (5 mins).
Oven cost: 21p (20 mins).
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability
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