Microwave sweet potato – one of my favorite sides. Sweet potatoes are healthy and delicious, and can be quickly “baked” in the microwave.
Microwave sweet potato is definitely one of my favorite side dishes. It is easy, quick, delicious and very healthy.
Are sweet potatoes healthy?
Yes! It’s no wonder sweet potatoes have become the darling of the nutrition-conscious Paleo community. They are high in carbs, but they are very nutritious. A medium, 7-ounce sweet potato contains 940 mg of potassium and 800% of your daily vitamin A requirements. It also has 65% of vitamin C, half your Manganese requirements and a third of vitamin B6.
How do I bake a sweet potato in the microwave?
It’s so easy! Sweet potatoes can be “baked” in the microwave with incredible results. Simply pierce the skin and place on a paper towel. Then microwave the sweet potato for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on its size. Allow to slightly cool, then cut in half. The recipe card below provides detailed instructions.
MY LATEST VIDEOSDo you peel sweet potatoes before microwaving?
No. You can simply wash the sweet potato well, then microwave it with the skin on. Sweet potato skin is edible, so it’s up to you if you want to remove it before eating or not. I like to leave it on.
Is it bad to cook a sweet potato in the microwave?
Many people worry about microwave oven safety. But according to the World Health Organization, when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, microwave ovens are safe. In fact, microwave cooking helps preserve some nutrients.
How to eat microwave sweet potato?
I enjoy microwave sweet potatoes just as they are, warm and tender and flavorful. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of kosher salt. Obviously, you can add a pat of butter.
I know that many people like a sweet version. I haven’t tried it myself, but you could try a pat of unsalted butter or coconut oil, a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey.
What to serve with microwave sweet potato?
Anything! It’s such a wonderfully versatile side dish. It goes with so many main courses. I often serve microwave sweet potato with baked chicken breast, as a side to reverse seared steak, or with baked pork chops. It’s also excellent with a couple of fried eggs for a tasty, filling meatless dinner.
What about leftovers?
You can keep leftovers in the fridge, in a sealed container, for 3-4 days. Reheat them gently, covered, in the microwave on 50% power.
PS. For a more complex – and rewarding – sweet potato recipe, try these incredible twice baked sweet potatoes.
Microwave Sweet Potato
Ingredients
- 1 (7oz) sweet potato
Instructions
- Wash and dry the sweet potato. Don't peel it. Pierce in a few places with a fork.
- Place the sweet potato on a paper towel and microwave on high 3 minutes. Turn to the other side and microwave 2 more minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Allow to rest 2 minutes before serving. I like to simply slice the microwave sweet potato and enjoy its natural sweetness - I don't even sprinkle it with salt, as I find the saltiness detracts from its natural flavor. But obviously, you can cut the sweet potato in half, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and top with a little butter.
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