Healthy Microwaveable Food

Microwaveable food can seem like a time saving miracle, but it's easy to be derailed by hidden calories and ingredients. Always carefully check the nutrition label for foods. Items that appear to be single servings may actually contain several servings in one package. Most pre-made microwaveable foods are high in sodium, so try to choose a low sodium option. Avoid meals that contain hydrogenated fats. Organic or all natural meals may still be high in calories and sodium and aren't necessarily healthy.

Grains

Whole grain pasta, oatmeal, brown rice and wild rice can be cooked in the microwave. Whole grains are rich in fiber and contain minerals like iron, niacin, thiamine and calcium. Avoid boxed or package grain mixes that contain added sodium, sugar or sauces. Be conscious of serving sizes, and refrigerate or freeze leftovers for another time.

Vegetables

Vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and fiber that are important for health. Some pre-made foods contain ample vegetables, but many don't. Look for dinners that are 50 percent vegetables or have tomato sauces rather than high calorie cream sauces. Frozen vegetables are easily cooked in the microwave and can be added to microwaveable dinners or eaten as a side dish. Add spices or a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.

Eggs

Eggs microwave easily and can be stirred into noodle dishes or cooked separately for an egg sandwich. Eggs are high in protein and choline, a vitamin that may improve memory and reaction time. Eggs are also high in cholesterol, a substance that can increase your risk of heart disease if you eat too much, so limit your consumption. Egg yolks contain cholesterol, but don't forgo egg yolks completely; valuable nutrients are contained in the yolk too.

Lean Sausages

Organic and all natural chicken or turkey sausages can be healthy and easy to make. They are packed with protein, and many come precooked so you don't have to worry about undercooking them. Some sausages are high in sodium and fat, so be careful which brands you choose. Sausage slices can be added to vegetables, pasta and rice.

Whole Dinners

Microwaveable dinners vary in terms of how nutritious they are, but a few modifications can improve most meals. High calorie, fat or sodium meals can be divided so your intake of unhealthy ingredients is reduced. Microwaveable vegetables or whole grains can be eaten as a side dish to create a balanced meal. Create your own microwaveable dinners by saving leftovers from stove-top meals. Chili, vegetable lasagna and healthy stews all freeze well and can easily be reheated in the microwave.