Microwave Cauliflower

Microwave cauliflower with butter, salt, pepper and garlic for a healthy low carb side dish. Learn how to steam cauliflower in the microwave in just a few minutes with this easy recipe! It's fork tender and delicious!

We love to cook cauliflower in the microwave! It's the easiest way to steam cauliflower, and it comes out perfectly cooked every time. All you need it a little butter, water and seasoning.

Microwave cooking is healthy, since veggies retain more nutrients this way. I also love to cook baked potatoes, carrots, green beans, broccoli, asparagus and sweet potatoes in the microwave.

Jump to:

• How to Steam Cauliflower in the Microwave
• How Long to Cook
• How to Store
• Recipe
• Reviews

How to Steam Cauliflower in the Microwave

First, you'll need to rinse the cauliflower under cold water. Then, carefully cut off the stem, using a sharp knife. Cut the head into smaller florets, cutting off as much of the stems as possible.

Smaller heads of cauliflower are easier to work with. Look for those when you can. If you can only find a large head of cauliflower, you can either cook it all at once or chop up half of it and save the rest for later.

Try to keep the florets around the same size. They'll cook more evenly this way. You'll probably have some that are smaller then others, but this is fine.

The smaller pieces will just be on the soft side. Or, you can munch on them for a healthy snack! They're super tasty with just a touch of sea salt or perfect for dunking in homemade ranch dressing or cucumber dill dip!

Place the cut cauliflower into a microwave safe bowl. Then, add a little water, sea salt, pepper, garlic powder and butter.

Now, cover the dish with plastic wrap -- make sure to vent it. Or, use a microwave cover if you have it. You can also use a large plate or a paper towel.

How Long to Cook

The total time to cook cauliflower in the microwave depends on how much you're cooking and how big the pieces are. Small heads yield about 3 cups of florets, which take about 4 minutes to cook until fork tender.

Start off with 4 minutes. If the cauliflower is still too hard, add another minute until it's just easy enough to pierce with a fork. Keep in mind, cauliflower will keep cooking after you take it out.

Always take care when removing the lid from cauliflower or any food after microwaving. The steam is hot, so use oven mitts or pot holders.

You can drain the cooking liquid before serving or pour some over the steamed veggies for extra flavor. Steamed cauliflower is buttery, with a slight nutty taste and so delicious!

How to Store

Store any leftover cooked cauliflower in a covered container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 4 days.

Recipe