So I'm heading off to college in the fall and I'll be living on my own for the first time. I'm trying to compile a list of simple, inexpensive, and nourishing meals I can cook for myself. Can anyone share their top four easy meals that got them through college?
Cooking on a budget doesn't have to mean sacrificing nutrition or flavor!
1. Pasta with Veggie Stir-fry: Cook some pasta (whatever type you prefer). While that’s cooking, sauté some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli in a pan with some olive oil, and a bit of salt and pepper. Once everything is cooked, you can toss the pasta and veggies together and add some store-bought pasta sauce or pesto.
2. Breakfast Burritos: Scramble some eggs, sauté some peppers and onions, grate some cheese, and you're good to go. You can bulk prepare these and freeze them for quick breakfasts.
3. Rice and Beans: This one's super cheap and nutritious. Cook some rice, heat up a can of black beans with some seasonings (like cumin, chili powder, and garlic), and mix them together. You could also add some salsa or canned corn for extra flavor and texture.
4. Tuna Salad Wraps: This one's super easy. Take a can of tuna, drain it, and mix it with mayonnaise, chopped celery, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Wrap it up in some lettuce or stick it in a sandwich. It's high in protein, and you can customize the flavor with different herbs or seasonings.
Remember, cooking doesn't have to be fancy to be flavorful. Spices, herbs, and sauces can really make a difference, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what you enjoy. Happy cooking!
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