Being a college student means having days where your stomach is growling, but you are too tired to think of making anything yourself. Ordering fast food every day? Not an option, especially when you’re on a tight budget.
Looking for meals that don’t break the bank without sacrificing flavor or nutrition is slowly starting to sound like an oxymoron, but do not worry—we went on a hunt for seven budget-friendly meals for college students and came out victorious.
These recipes are perfect for students juggling school, work and a social life without spending hours in the kitchen or breaking their bank.
1. The Study Break Salad
The grilled chicken salad with homemade croutons is a quick, healthy and affordable recipe perfect for busy students. It includes grilled chicken, boiled eggs, fresh lettuce, red onions and homemade croutons, all topped with a simple homemade dressing.
For the full recipe and detailed instructions, visit VerilyTastily.
2. Loaded Baked Potatoes
This simple and budget-friendly baked potato recipe uses moderate ingredients like potatoes, cheese, sour cream and green onions. To prepare it, microwave or bake the potatoes until soft, then slice them open and add your favorite toppings. Optional extras include bacon bits or black beans. It is an easy meal that’s filling and perfect for anyone on a tight budget.
3. Instant Ramen Upgrade
Enhance instant ramen by adding an egg and vegetables—frozen veggies also work. During the last minutes of the cooking process, you can also add soy sauce or sriracha to boost the flavor. This simple step makes the ramen more nutritious, satisfying and budget-friendly.
You can also substitute the ramen with rice.
4. Oatmeal with Toppings
Cook rolled oats with milk or water, then customize with toppings like fruit, nuts or honey. This affordable and versatile meal is perfect for a quick, filling breakfast or a snack.
Oatmeal is a source of fiber, folate, manganese, zinc and various other nutrients. It is also inexpensive, accessible, and shelf-stable.
5. Tuna Salad Sandwich
Mix canned tuna with mayo and optional extras like celery or pickles, then spread on bread for a quick, protein-rich sandwich. This affordable and easy-to-make meal uses pantry staples. It also saves time for students to study without worrying about how long it will take them to make a meal.
6. Quesadilla
Make a quick quesadilla by layering cheese, canned beans and veggies between tortillas, then cook in a pan until the cheese melts. It is a cheap, protein-packed meal using affordable ingredients.
7. Poori Masala
Poori Masala is a flavorful potato curry made with onions, spices and mashed potatoes. It is served with poori, a fried flatbread made from wheat flour and water. This filling, affordable meal uses basic ingredients like potatoes and flour—perfect for budget-friendly cooking.
These easy meals prove that eating on a budget doesn’t have to be bland. By incorporating these recipes into their weekly routine, students will save time and money while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals.
Koena Lizza, Staff Writer/Intern
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