How to get more from your microwave

A microwave is fantastic for reviving, drying and roasting — follow these simple steps and you'll soon be using yours like a pro.

• To revive crackers

  Freshen stale crackers or biscuits by placing them in a single layer on a double thickness of paper towel on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1 minute at 70 per cent. Remove from microwave and set aside for 2-3 minutes to cool. They will still be soft when they first come out of the microwave, but will become crisp on cooling.

• To dry herbs

  Remove any dead or discoloured leaves. Rinse with cold water and dry with paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place four or five herb stalks between paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Place in microwave with a small bowl of water and cook at 100 per cent for 1-2 minutes. Check herbs for dryness. If necessary, continue to microwave at 30-second intervals. Herbs will crumble easily when thoroughly dried.

• To roast nuts

  This is a very easy and quick way to roast a serve of nuts. Spread nuts in a single layer on paper towel on a microwave-safe plate. Cook for 1-1 ½ minutes at 100 per cent. Stir, then stand for 1 minute. Cook again at 100 per cent for another 1-1 ½ minutes. After cooking, spread roasted nuts in a single layer on paper towel to cool. Season nuts with your favourite spices before roasting, if you like. It's easier if you first brush them lightly with olive oil or melted butter, although this adds to the fat content.

  YOUR SAY: What do you use your microwave for, besides the usual? Tell us below!