Written by Lauren Graham
Sometimes it can be a real struggle to figure out what to make for lunch or dinner when you’re busy studying for class or worrying about overdoing your budget. But the good news is that when you’re a student, meals don't have to be boring or uninspired! There are always great meal ideas just right around the corner. So here are four easy, fun, and tasty meals that are quick and simple to prepare. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prepping throughout your average school week. Without further ado, let’s get started!
1. Feta Pasta: From Your Feed to the Kitchen
If you have an affinity for the food side of TikTok or Instagram like I do, then you have no doubt seen the viral feta and tomato pasta bake recipe. What I love about this meal is that you can add whatever you please to your pasta noodles. That way, when you put it in the oven, out comes an explosion of flavor! The basis of this recipe includes the pasta noodles of your choice, cherry tomatoes, a block of crumbled feta, and your favorite seasonings. From then on, the rest is up to you. To add more color and vitamins, I prefer to add spinach, mushrooms, and onions. However, if you want more sustenance, protein like chicken and chickpeas can easily pair with this college student-friendly pasta dish. Moreover, you can prepare this recipe in advance so that whenever you’re in a bind for time, you can simply reheat it and enjoy!
2. Not Your Average Turkey Sandwich
I once read that a good sandwich can cure any problem. While that may or may not be true, a good turkey sandwich can solve a quick hunger problem! This turkey sandwich recipe is not your average one, because it is completely customizable! Whatever you want to include between the two slices of bread is up to you. The goal is to make the simple turkey sandwich into one that's so exciting you can't wait to take a bite. For example, my dream turkey sandwich recipe includes a fresh hoagie roll, turkey slices, Havarti cheese, and veggies like lettuce, white onion, tomato, and pickles. For extra flavor, I also drizzle olive oil and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Plus, you should know that you can use these ingredients to make another turkey sandwich later in the week (or at 3 am when you’re cramming for a test).
3. Better-Than-Chipotle Bowls
I don't know about you, but when it comes to grabbing a quick and filling bite, Chipotle is one of my go-to spots. However, those bowls can quickly add up and not look so hot for your budget. So, if you’re craving Tex-Mex, prepare Chipotle bowl copycats at home and make enough to last you the whole week. All you need are the essentials: cilantro lime rice, black or pinto beans, and your preferred protein. Next, decide your favorite toppings: fajitas, pico de gallo, corn, lettuce, and cheese. The best aspect of this meal is that you control how much you want in your bowl, as opposed to Chipotle’s sometimes skimpy portions. Plus, the guacamole doesn’t cost extra! Now, here’s a quick tip: freeze your leftover rice so that when you reheat it, it still retains that original moisture, and you can avoid the risk of bacteria seeping in.
4. Restaurant Worthy Instant Ramen
As college students, we must use our creative cooking skills to make meals that satisfy our taste buds and don't hurt our budgets. Instant ramen is one of those tried-and-true meals that tastes nostalgic but doesn't cost a fortune. With packaged ramen, the possibilities are endless! You can use anything in your fridge and make a humble $1.29 packet of ramen into something truly gourmet. My favorite instant ramen brands are Maruchan, Top Ramen, and Nongshim Shin, and when I’m feeling fancy, Sapporo Ichiban for that classic Tonkotsu Japanese broth. To spice up the ramen packets, you can even add a variety of toppings such as a soft-boiled egg, corn, mushrooms, and green onions. The outcome will be a hearty and filling meal that will leave you feeling like a top chef right at home.
I hope you’ll find these four meal ideas to be simple yet delicious. They are also undoubtedly easy to incorporate into your schedule. So, enjoy these recipes and have a great week of meal prepping! And don't forget to add a dessert somewhere in there, because after completing all your assignments, you deserve a little sweet treat escape!
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