Microwaves are a staple in every kitchen, but finding the right size to fit your dinner plate can be a challenge. The last thing anyone wants is to have to awkwardly maneuver their food around in the microwave. In this article, we’ll discuss what size microwave fits a dinner plate easily, the factors to consider when choosing the right microwave size for your dinner plate, popular microwave sizes for dinner plates, and tips for finding the perfect fit. We’ll also delve into the topic of microwave plate covers and how to use a microwave safely.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Microwave
When choosing a microwave, there are several factors to consider to ensure your plate fits easily.
Plate size:
The size of your plate is an essential factor when choosing a microwave. If your plate is too big for your microwave, it won’t fit properly, and you’ll have to maneuver your food around awkwardly. On the other hand, if your plate is too small, it may not heat your food evenly.
Microwave size:
The size of your microwave is equally important when choosing the right size for your dinner plate. If your microwave is too small, your dinner plate won’t fit, and if it’s too big, it may not heat your food evenly.
Interior capacity:
The interior capacity of your microwave is also crucial. If your microwave is too small, your dinner plate won’t fit properly, and if it’s too big, your food may not heat evenly.
Power output:
The power output of your microwave is another essential factor. Microwaves with higher wattage can heat food faster and more evenly than those with lower wattage.
Price:
Price is another factor to consider when choosing a microwave. Microwaves with more features and higher wattage are typically more expensive.
What Size Plate Fits a Standard Microwave?
Standard plate sizes:
Most dinner plates are around 10-12 inches in diameter, but there are variations.
Microwave size requirements for standard plates:
For a standard dinner plate, a microwave with at least 0.5 cubic feet of interior space is recommended.
How to Measure Your Dinner Plate?
Materials needed:
- Ruler or tape measure
- Dinner plate
Step-by-step guide to measuring your plate:
- Place your dinner plate on a flat surface.
- Measure the diameter of your dinner plate from one edge to the other.
- Note down the measurement.
Popular Microwave Sizes for Dinner Plates
0.5 cubic feet microwaves:
These microwaves have at least 0.5 cubic feet of interior space and are perfect for small plates.
0.7 cubic feet microwaves:
These microwaves have at least 0.7 cubic feet of interior space and can accommodate standard-sized dinner plates.
1.0 cubic feet microwaves:
These microwaves have at least 1.0 cubic feet of interior space and can easily accommodate larger dinner plates.
1.2 cubic feet microwaves:
These microwaves have at least 1.2 cubic feet of interior space and are perfect for larger plates.
1.6 cubic feet microwaves:
These microwaves have at least 1.6 cubic feet of interior space and can accommodate multiple plates at once.
Choosing the Right Microwave Size for Your Dinner Plate
Factors to consider when choosing the right size:
- Plate size
- Microwave size
- Interior capacity
- Power output
Tips for finding the perfect fit:
- Measure your dinner plate before purchasing a microwave.
- Choose a microwave with at least 0.5 cubic feet of interior space for a standard dinner plate.
- Consider the power output of the microwave to ensure your food is heated evenly.
- If you have larger plates, opt for a microwave with at least 1.0 cubic feet of interior space.
Examples of plates and microwaves that fit well together:
- Standard-sized dinner plates fit well in a 0.7 cubic feet microwave.
- Larger plates fit well in a 1.0 cubic feet microwave.
Microwave Plate Covers: Do They Help?
Pros and cons of using a microwave plate cover:
Pros:
- Keeps your microwave clean and free from splatters.
- Prevents food from drying out while heating.
- Reduces the cooking time.
Cons:
- Some covers may not be microwave-safe.
- The cover may trap steam, causing food to become soggy.
Different types of microwave plate covers available:
- Plastic covers
- Glass covers
- Silicone covers
How to Use a Microwave Safely?
General microwave safety tips:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Never put metal or aluminum foil in the microwave.
- Don’t overheat food in the microwave.
- Keep the microwave clean and free from debris.
Tips for heating food safely:
- Stir food halfway through heating to ensure even heating.
- Use microwave-safe containers.
- Follow the recommended heating time and power settings in the microwave’s user manual or on the food packaging.
- Let food stand for a minute or two after heating to allow for further cooking and to distribute heat evenly.
- Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the food has reached a safe level (165°F or 74°C for most foods).
- Avoid overfilling containers or stacking them too high, as this can prevent proper heating.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right size microwave for your dinner plate can be a challenge, but it’s essential for easy and efficient heating. By considering factors such as plate size and microwave capacity, you can find the perfect fit. Popular microwave sizes for dinner plates include 0.5-1.0 cubic feet and 700-1000 watts. It’s also important to use microwave plate covers and follow safety guidelines when using a microwave. With these tips, you’ll be able to heat your food quickly and easily without any awkward maneuvering in the microwave.
