Being a college music student means having a very packed schedule. You have classes, homework, practicing, rehearsals… it’s pretty time consuming. It can be fairly difficult having the time or energy to prioritize yourself during these four years when you already have so much to do. One of the things that can easily slip is preparing good meals for yourself. However silly it sounds, though, putting yourself first will be what makes it possible for you to make it through! Here are some tips and tricks on some quick, easy, and healthy ideas for recipes to make.
Before we get to the recipes, here are a couple tips on how to stay on top of food preparation:
Meal prep. Take a designated day and plan out the meals for your week. Check your budget and see what you can afford, and then prepare accordingly. You can leave a little wiggle room, like for days when you want to eat out with friends or buy something at a cafeteria on campus. Doing this will help you stay within budget. It will also save you a lot of time!
Balance your meals. Make sure you are getting a proper amount of healthy protein, carbs, and fats. This will give you energy that lasts throughout your entire day. There’s nothing wrong with something sweet or salty – balance is key. Just make sure you are also getting the nutrition you need on top of it!
Advertisement
Make eating a priority. Sometimes it can be easy to forget to eat when you’re running around trying to check off everything on your to-do list. Make sure you take time to rest and eat your food throughout the day. This will give you energy and prevent burnout!
Alright, now onto the recipes!
Breakfast
Overnight oats. This one is simple. Soak oats in your milk of choice overnight with a pinch of salt, honey, and whatever fruit toppings you choose. Voila! An easy breakfast on the go.
Yogurt. This is a good option for a snack too. Add granola and fruit for extra nutrients!
Eggs. An excellent protein option. You can boil, scramble, or cook them over easy!
Protein shake/Smoothie. A great on-the-go option. You can blend protein powder, milk, and fruit together in a smoothie to create a quick breakfast for when you need to leave the dorm quick!
Lunch/Dinner
Baked potatoes. These are cheap and easy. You can either bake these in the microwave or the oven, and you can bake several at a time! Can be topped with chilli and sour cream for a meal, or used as a carbohydrate on the side.
Ramen noodles with peas and carrots. A cheap option with some added nutrients. Boil water, add the noodles and flavoring, and then add the vegetables. I prefer frozen peas and corn, as they taste more fresh than canned.
Quesadilla. Quick and easy – all you need is a skillet or frying pan. You can use corn or flour tortillas, and topping opportunities are endless! You can add cheese, refried beans, salsa, etc. Get creative!
Advertisement
Stir fry. Great option where you can use lots of vegetables, and it cooks quickly. Easily reheated, too! Get a stir fry sauce, cut up whatever veggies you prefer, and pick a meat of choice. All you need is a frying pan.
Meat/Tuna sandwich. This is good for when you have to pack a lunch. Use a whole wheat or whole grain bread, and add whatever meat options and veggie options you prefer! I personally love grapes, carrots, and potato chips as my sides to a tuna sandwich (tuna is my favorite).
Soup. You can buy pre-packaged soup at a store for pretty cheap. I remember I practically lived off of spaghetti-o’s when I was in college. There’s lots of good canned soup options for when you want something that is quick and light.
Hope some of these options help! Happy cooking!
