Just because you’re forced to live in a tiny 14’ x 15’ room for the next nine months doesn’t mean you have to eat a Cup of Noodles each day. If you have the right ingredients, you can eat healthily from breakfast until dinner. You don’t need a fancy kitchen or special tools. You can store all the ingredients in your mini-fridge or pantry, and if it requires cooking, simply pop it in the microwave or use the kitchen in your apartment or on the floor in your dorm. Keep reading for the best dorm room recipes!
Breakfast: Oatmeal
- Oatmeal is one of the easiest breakfasts you can make and, because it’s full of complex carbohydrates, it’ll keep you full until all your morning classes are over. Throw some oats into a bowl and add water (or milk for a good source of protein). Microwave it and enjoy it with some treats. A sliced banana, a spoonful of peanut butter, dried fruit or even some walnuts will make this ordinary meal turn gourmet.
Lunch: Salad
- Salads are a great way to get a bunch of essential nutrients into your diet. Just because it’s a salad doesn’t mean it can’t be your main meal. First, top your leafy greens with veggies – broccoli, carrots, onions, mushrooms – whatever you like! Then, add some protein like tofu or chicken breast. For some healthy fat, toss some sunflower seeds or sliced almonds on top. And last, don’t forget the dressing. Try to stay away from the creamy dressings like ranch. Your best option is olive oil and vinegar – this will provide some additional heart-healthy fat. You’ll be amazed how full you’ll be after eating a salad like this.
Snack
- You can skip the vending machine filled with candy bars and chips. If you’re on the go, pack a piece of fruit and some nuts. If you’re near your fridge or you can buy something at a convenient store, grab some string cheese or Greek yogurt. Walk past those packs of starbursts and bags of pretzel and choose one of these nutritious snack options.
Dinner: Quesadilla
- If you’ve got a lot of time, you can cook this on the stove, but if you’re short on time, just pop it in the microwave so the cheese can melt. For the most fiber, start with a whole wheat tortilla. Add some cheese and chicken, fold it in half and cook! Feel free to add some veggies like mushrooms, spinach and tomatoes. To sneak some more veggies – add salsa.
