Especially in the wake of the Market Basket hubbub, groceries and grocery prices are at the forefront of many American minds. This subject, however, is something that has always been at the forefront for college students. During these frugal years, penny pinching is often essential, as is exploiting meal plans to make careful use of every precious swipe and point deduction.
Any Deisian knows that the “C” in “C-Store” (otherwise known as the “Hoot Market” for any freshman not yet updated on Brandeis lingo) doesn’t stand for cheap. Something lesser known, however, is that making meals from this convenient campus hub doesn’t have to exhaust your points plan. Simple ingredients such as ramen noodles, often hailed as the staple of any college diet, can be used to quickly make easy, delicious, and most importantly cheap meals.
Take this Antipasto Ramen Salad, an easy to prepare recipe with ingredients from the C-store for a grand total less than 10 points!:
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen (original, oriental or chicken) ($0.49)
– Bumble Bee Sensations tuna ($2.59) (for those that like a little protein in their salad)
– 1/8 cup onion (1 medium onion usually $0.99 but price is weight dependent)
– 1/2 cup chopped apples ($0.49)
– Italian dressing (as much as preferred) ($2.49)
Preparation: Cook noodles according to package directions and drain. Add tuna, onion, apple and any other desired fruits/veggies. Sprinkle on dressing and toss!
And if you feel like splurging on dessert, try some bananas and ice cream!
– Banana ($0.99)
– Ice cream bar ($1.99)