Do you own a microwave? Probably. But did you know that recent research has shown that because of the lack of power that it uses, compared with conventional cooking methods, the microwave works out the cheapest of all the cooking appliances? And with energy costs spiraling to unthinkable levels, it seems that the microwave's moment has come - and not before time. Because of its energy efficiency isn't it time to use it every day creatively rather than just warming up leftovers?

There are countless dishes that are done beautifully, and completely, in a microwave. Vegetables cook perfectly, losing fewer nutrients than in a pan and fish is generally regarded better done in the microwave than poached or steamed.

So with that in mind this collection of both time-honored and newly created microwave compatible favorites is here for you to enjoy - they represent years of mid-week and special occasion eating developed by the author for her husband and herself, for the numerous times when a speedy dish was required to feed a friend at lunch or when eating alone. We hope you will enjoy the selection.