Microwave cauliflower is an easy side dish that can be made in about 10 minutes. This is a simple, delicious way to steam cauliflower for a healthy side dish.

While I do love the air fryer when I want crispy, roasted vegetables, I often turn to the microwave when I want to have steamed, soft vegetables like acorn squash and spaghetti squash.

This microwave method is fast and cooks the cauliflower nice and tender-crisp. No steamer basket is required, just one bowl and your done.

Ingredients needed

Cauliflower – You will need a head of fresh cauliflower.

Water – Cold water is used to help steam and soften.

Optional – Add your favorite seasonings like salt, pepper and garlic powder. You can even add some butter for a rich and creamy dish.

How to microwave cauliflower

1. Clean off the cauliflower and cut into bite sized florets.
2. Put the florets in a microwave safe bowl and then pour in water.
3. Place plastic wrap over the bowl to cover. You could also use a microwave safe plate or lid to cover the bowl.
4. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Pierce the cauliflower with a fork to check for desired doneness. If you prefer softer, cover and microwave for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with desired seasonings.

How to cut cauliflower florets

Here is a simple method for cutting florets.

Step one: Remove the leaves from the base of the cauliflower.

Step two: Cut it in half and then cut the halves in half.

Step three: Angle the knife to cut out the core and then pull apart the florets.

How to microwave a whole cauliflower

If you would like to steam the whole cauliflower instead of florets, remove the green leaves and trim the stem.

Place the whole head in a microwave safe dish, stem side down and pour in 1/4 cup of water. Cover and cook about 8- 10 minutes.

How to store

The steamed cauliflower can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-4 days. After that it starts to get a little mushy.

Reheat in the microwave for about one minute or place in the oven or air fryer to warm through.

What to serve with cauliflower

This is a great side dish for a variety of meals. Try it with things like:

• Meatloaf
• Chicken
• Steak

Recipe tips

• When picking a fresh cauliflower, try to find one that is cream in color and hasn’t started to turn brown.
• Cook time may vary depending on how much you are cooking. Check after 5 minutes and if the florets are still too hard, cover and cook another 1-2 minutes. Try not to over cook.
• Try cutting the florets to a similar size so they cook evenly.
• Make sure to use oven mitts or a towel to remove the bowl from the microwave. It will be hot.
• Try topping with a variety of things like Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese sauce,

More easy vegetable recipes

• Air fryer roasted vegetables
• Instant Pot broccoli
• Air fryer spaghetti squash
• Roasted frozen vegetables

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