Three Fast Microwave Meals For Kids (Sponsored)

I have been trialling the new Panasonic NN-CD87KS which is a very premium convection/grill/microwave oven. In busy parent terms all that means is that this appliance can do just about anything you need it to, and it can do it fast. Want to WIN one? Head over to our Facebook page (Competition closes 23/02/20 at 10pm AEST.)   Here’s what you need to know about this microwave:

• It’s slimline and designed for families! This microwave looks shmick and takes up less room on the bench than other convection microwaves. It has a one-push reheating function (cooked to perfection with the genius sensor) and healthy Junior-Menu option.
•  Everything is pre-programmed with combi-cooking programs. This will give you fast professional results by combining the different functions – microwave, convection and grill! Think crispy fried foods, perfectly tender roast meats, whole chicken, quiche and pizza!
• Times have changed when it comes to the humble microwave. Your food will be evenly cooked, meaning it won’t be over-done, or parts left raw, and you won’t have to stir and heat and stir and heat like in older-style microwaves.

That all sounds pretty good, I know! But the proof is in the cooking. Let me show you three super simple recipes you can cook in the microwave, perfect for those busy nights where you need something-one-the-table NOW!

THREE FAST MICROWAVE MEALS FOR KIDS

Pizza toast

Feel like pizza but don’t have the time? Whip up this gorgeous little pizza toast! You can use any of your favourite pizza toppings.  Serves 2 Ingredients

• 2 slices multigrain bread
• 2 tablespoons no added salt tomato paste
• ½ cup mozzarella
• ¼ cup chopped pineapple
• 2 slices free range ham, chopped

Method

1. Arrange 2 slices of bread on the wire rack on the enamel tray and toast on Grill 1 for 4 minutes, turn and grill for a further 2 minutes or until browned.
2. Spread toast with the tomato paste, a sprinkle of grated mozzarella and top with ham and pineapple.
3. Cook on Combi 1 for 4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is beginning to brown.
4. Slice and serve with a side of veggies and chopped fruit.

Pesto pasta

This pasta is paired perfectly with some crunchy garlic bread – yep you can bake bread in the microwave now too!   Serves 4 Ingredients

• 225g dried pasta twists
• 1 cup grated cheese
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved

 Pesto

• 1 bunch fresh basil, washed, leaves removed
• ¼ cup pinenuts
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 40ml extra virgin olive oil
• Pinch of salt

Method

1. To cook the pasta place 225g pasta twists in a large 3L microwave bowl. Pour over 1L of boiling water. Add 15ml oil and cover. Cook 1000W for 8-10 minutes stirring half way. Alternatively, you can use leftover cooked pasta.
2. In the meantime, to make the pesto combine all ingredients in a food processor. Process until you have a paste consistency. Freeze any leftover pesto.
3. In a square, microwave safe, shallow glass dish combine the cooked pasta, ¼ cup pesto,  sprinkle over ½ cup grated cheese and the cherry tomatoes.
4. Use the microwave function to cook for 4 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
5. Remove from the microwave and allow to cool slightly before serving with some vegetables and chopped fruit.

Storage : keep any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

Sticky chicken

 We use chicken drumettes to make this irresistible dinner. These sticky, tasty little morsels are delicious warm with some rice and veggies but also taste just as good cold the next day!  Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoon salt reduced soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup honey
• 750g chicken drumettes

Method

1. Mix the olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup and honey to make the marinade. Place the chicken in a shallow glass microwave proof dish and pour over the marinade. Toss to combine and if you have time place in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
2. Place the glass dish on the enamel tray and cook on combi 3, for 30 minutes, turning at the 15 minute mark to get that golden brown sticky consistency.
3. Remove from the microwave and allow to cool slightly before serving with some vegetables and chopped fruit.

Storage: store leftover cooked chicken in the fridge for 24 hours.