How to Cook Carrots in Microwave

When you discover How To Cook Carrots In the Microwave, you may never go back to boiling them again!

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When I microwave carrots, dinner is on the table in no time at all. It is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious vegetable. When you learn how to cook carrots in microwave-safe dishes, you have far less cleanup and mess, and isn’t that what we all want? Simplifying our lives while preparing tasty dishes!

How many of us were told to eat our carrots growing up so that we would have good eyesight? I always ate them, but I still needed glasses. That doesn’t mean carrots didn’t help; maybe my eyes would have been even worse without them. There’s no way of knowing. But what I do know is that carrots have always been one of my favorite vegetables. I like them cooked, raw, and especially in cakes and muffins.

But I’ve digressed, so let’s get back to this recipe. There are so many tasty ways you can adjust this dish to suit your tastes. I’ll share some in the FAQs below, so check them out.

Are Carrots in the Microwave Healthy?

Like most vegetables, carrots provide abundant nutrients that our bodies need for optimum health. Carrots contain vitamins A, B6, C, and K, antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals such as potassium. Carrots are a tasty vegetable you can feel good eating, and when cooked in the microwave, you don’t need to use many oils or fats to get a whole lot of flavor out of them.

No Steamer Necessary When Microwaving Carrots

I used to hate steaming vegetables on the stove because it required multiple pieces of equipment, which resulted in more items to wash. Stovetop steaming requires a pot, a lid, and a steamer basket.

Steaming in the microwave is much easier. I use any microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or plate. That’s it; no more scalding-hot metal baskets and pots! The process is so quick and easy that it makes mealtime preparation a breeze.

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store

Although this is a quick, easy side dish, peeling and cutting the carrots is the most time-consuming part. You can simplify the process by prepping the carrots up to 2 days ahead and refrigerating them in an airtight container until ready to cook. Once cooked, microwaved carrots stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or in the microwave.

Is It Better To Boil Or Microwave Carrots?

Microwaving carrots is better than boiling them, as it retains more of their nutrients. It also uses less energy in the cooking process. When boiling, you must allow the water to boil and then factor in cooking time. Microwaving does not require as much energy, providing quicker results.

What Other Seasonings Taste Good On Microwaved Carrots?

If you like a savory dish, I recommend using thyme, rosemary, dill, parsley, or oregano. You can also replace the butter with olive oil. I like to use coconut oil instead of butter for a sweeter side dish. Honey, maple syrup, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon are great options, too.

Can I Use Frozen Carrots?

Frozen carrots work well in the microwave. Adjust the cooking time based on the instructions on the package.

Can I use baby carrots?

If you want to save time and use baby carrots, that’s fine. Just cut the bigger, fatter ones in half lengthwise so they don’t take forever to cook.

Serving Suggestions

Microwave carrots are delicious with most entrées. I like to adjust my seasonings based on the protein they accompany. For example, I use a honey glaze instead of fresh thyme if I serve them with Teriyaki Chicken Wings or Honey-Garlic Chicken. I prepare the recipe as written for more savory dishes, such as Chicken and Potatoes or Shake-And-Bake Pork Chops.