Quick, Easy, and Tasty Recipes for Busy College Students
College life can be hectic, with a lot of demands on your time and energy. When your taste buds are screaming for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal, consider these quick and satisfying recipes that you can whip up in no time.
Indian Curry and Oat Porridge
Start with any Indian curry you enjoy, or simply use chopped boiled vegetables, preferably green. Combine 1 bowl of the curry or vegetables with 1 bowl of oats, a pinch of salt, cumin seeds, and chopped onions. Fry the onions and cumin seeds in ghee or oil until browned, then add the vegetables or curry. Sauté for a couple of minutes and then add soaked oats. Gradually add water while stirring, as oats absorb a lot of water, to maintain a consistent mixture. Add salt to taste and your preferred spices. Stir often, allowing the porridge to simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This dish is rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein, making it both healthy and tasty.
Welsh Rarebit
Perfect for a quick, cheesy treat! Toast one side of a slice of bread. Grate cheddar cheese and add a beaten egg. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Butter the other side of the bread and spread the cheese/egg mixture. Place under a hot grill until it’s bubbly and brown. This classic dish is both comforting and easy to prepare.
Brown Beef Gravy with Mushrooms
Brown 1 pound of hamburger meat and drain off the fat. Then, add an envelope of brown gravy mix and stir in water to achieve your desired consistency. You can also add a can of drained mushrooms. Serve this savory gravy over a mound of mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tuna and Chicken Salad
Tuna and chicken salad are perfect for meal prepping. Mix your choice of tuna or chicken with just a hint of mayonnaise and mustard. Add a little seasoning, and mix well. You can keep a portion in the fridge and take it out whenever you want, making a sandwich with any additional toppings you prefer. It's easy to make and versatile in its uses.
Chicken Caesar Flatbread Wrap
For a fresh and flavorful wrap, toss Romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese, plus croutons if you like. Add leftover grilled chicken, then wrap in a warmed flatbread. This is a delicious and quick lunch or dinner option.
Chalupas
Heat canned refried beans on the stove, adding a little pickled jalape?o juice or vegetable/chicken stock to loosen it up. Top it with finely diced jalape?os, onions, and your favorite toppings like lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese. Serve with queso fresco for a zesty and satisfying meal.
Roast Beef Wrap
Create a hearty wrap by slicing deli roast beef, adding Swiss or cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and horseradish sauce into a whole-wheat tortilla. Roll it up and enjoy your healthy meal.
Turkey Avocado Boats
Use leftover cold turkey or chicken in the bottom of a leaf of bib lettuce, topped with avocado, diced tomatoes, and a mix of hard-boiled eggs, bacon, and blue cheese. Add crumbled dry ramen or fried cellophane noodles for extra texture. Drizzle the top with extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Barbecue Cups
Combine cooked ground beef or turkey with baked beans, diced onions, and barbecue sauce, seasoning to taste. Roll out canned biscuit dough and create cups in a muffin tin. Fill them with the mixture, top with cheese, and bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes for a chef-worthy meal in minutes.
Avocado and Hummus Open-Face Sandwich
Create a delightful open-faced sandwich by spreading hummus on crusty bread. Add thinly sliced avocado, red onion, and cucumber, then top with alfalfa sprouts or similar. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and season with salt and pepper for a fresh, healthy meal.
These easy, quick, and tasty recipes can help busy college students maintain a healthy and satisfying diet without compromising on taste or convenience. Enjoy the flexibility and variety of these meals to fit your specific taste preferences and dietary needs.