Name: How to Microwave Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Ingredients: 1 Head Cauliflower; Salt; Pepper

Ingredients

1 Head Cauliflower
Salt to Taste
Pepper to Taste

Quick Summary

To microwave cauliflower, pop evenly-sized cauliflower florets into a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Cover the bowl then microwave for 6-8 minutes on high at 900w.

Method

Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

First, remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. This ensures even cooking. Rinse the florets under cold water and let them drain.

They don’t need to be completely dry, though, as a little moisture helps in steaming them in the microwave.

Slicing cauliflower into florets on a wooden chopping board

Step 2: Add to a Dish

Place the cauliflower florets in a microwave-safe dish. You don’t need to add water, as the moisture from washing is usually enough.

Cauliflower florets in a glass dish for the microwave

Step 3: Cover

Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or cling film. Leave a small vent for steam to escape if you’re using cling film. You can also just stab a few holes in it.

Cauliflower covered with cling film in a glass dish

Step 4: Microwave

Microwave on high power for about 6-8 minutes, based on 900w. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave and the size of the florets. Halfway through the cooking time, carefully remove the dish (it’ll be hot!) and give the cauliflower a quick stir or toss.

This is based on 900w of power. If your microwave has less power, add 1 minute to the cooking time. If your microwave has more power, then reduce the time by 1 minute.

Step 5: Remove

Once done, carefully remove the cauliflower from the microwave (watch out for steam when you uncover it) and let it sit for a minute. Test a piece to make sure it’s cooked to your liking. If it’s not, you can microwave it for another minute or so.

Microwaved cauliflower florets being checked for doneness with a wooden skewer

Step 6: Season

Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. I tend to season afterwards as it’s easier to control once the cauliflower is cooked. I find a lot of seasoning gets lost in the steaming process if you do it beforehand.

Cauliflower in a black bowl about to be seasoned with black pepper

Tweaks

Add Fat Once microwaved, give it some decadence by simply drizzling with olive oil or adding a knob of butter.
Char Give the florets some nuttiness and smokiness by charring with a blowtorch or under the grill once it is cooked.
Create Dishes The cooked cauliflower is perfect for use in cauliflower cheese, soup or mash. You can use it in any dish that requires cooked cauliflower.

Substitutes

Combine with Broccoli This method works just as well with broccoli. Swap out half of the cauliflower for broccoli for an easy mixed side dish.
Swap the Seasoning Salt and pepper are the go-to seasonings for pretty much anything, but try to use different spices in place of the black pepper, such as ground cumin or caraway seeds.

Storage

In the Fridge Let it cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. Seal it, and then store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave using 30-second bursts or enjoy cold.

In the Freezer To store cauliflower in the freezer, first let it cool completely. Then, spread it on a baking sheet to freeze individually, preventing clumps. Once frozen, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Other Types

How to Microwave Cauliflower Rice

To microwave cauliflower rice, place it in a microwave-safe bowl without adding water, cover it, and cook on high for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.

How to Microwave Whole Cauliflower

For a whole cauliflower, trim, core, and place it in a dish with 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and microwave on high for 8-10 minutes. Check then microwave for a further 5 minutes if it is not tender.

FAQs

Can You Microwave Cauliflower Without Water?

Yes, you can microwave cauliflower without adding water, especially if it’s riced or in small florets, as they release moisture while cooking.

Can You Microwave Cauliflower and Broccoli Together?

Yes, you can microwave cauliflower and broccoli together just ensure they are in similar-sized pieces for even cooking as they do cook at roughly the same rate in the microwave.

Does Cauliflower Smell When Microwaved?

Cauliflower may emit a mild smell when microwaved, as heating releases sulfur compounds naturally present in the vegetable.

Tips

Use Uniform Pieces As with all cooking methods and all veggies, it’s vital you cut each floret to roughly the same size. This will give you a completely even cook; otherwise, you risk having crunchy pieces and mushy pieces.

Dress Like a Salad Once cooked, toss the cooked cauliflower in a dressing of olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and your favourite herb (coriander works particularly well with cauliflower).