14 Who-Knew? Uses for Your Microwave

12. Getting More Juice From Citrus Fruits

A lemon or lime taken straight from the refrigerator is harder to juice than one left at room temperature or warmed slightly. To get the most juice, microwave citrus fruits for 20 seconds before squeezing.
 
 

13. Toasting Nuts, Bread Crumbs, and Coconut

The microwave toasts them in a quarter of the time it takes in a conventional oven. Spread them out on a plate and heat on high for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every minute. Keep in mind that they will continue to toast for about a minute after removal.
 
 

14. Cooking Vegetables

Still waiting for that cauldron of water to boil for your corn? All vegetables can be steamed in the microwave without adding water. Place them in one layer (if possible) on a dish, cover tightly with plastic, and cook on high. The timing will vary, but check tender items, such as spinach, mushrooms, and snow peas, after 30 seconds, and crunchy ones, like carrots, after 4 minutes.
 
 Try these holiday new uses for old things: 

• Holiday Decorating From the Stationery Store
• 12 Decorating Ideas From the Craft Store