Tortillas deep-fried into a crisp bowl shape are handy for serving taco salads, dips and condiments. You won't see them much in Mexico, where cooks typically load toppings onto flat tostadas, but in the U.S. they're a staple of Tex-Mex and fast food Mexican restaurants. You can make taco bowls at home -- with far less added fat -- by using your microwave. You can use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas if appropriate for your dietary needs.

Invert the smaller of two nesting bowls on a microwave-safe plate.

Spray a tortilla lightly on both sides with vegetable oil spray.

Drape the tortilla over the smaller bowl and fit the larger bowl over it to shape.

Place the plate and bowl-tortilla arrangement in the microwave. Cook on "high" for 40 seconds.

Remove the top bowl and return the plate to the microwave. Cook on "high" for an additional 40 seconds to evaporate any excess moisture.

Remove the tortilla from the bottom bowl and place it right side up on the plate -- by now it should be able to hold its shape. Microwave the tortilla bowl on high for an additional 45 to 60 seconds or until crisp and slightly browned.