As sophomore year winds down, I’ve become very excited for junior year to begin. Even though I have a long, much needed summer between now and then, I’ve been finding myself daydreaming about my apartment next year. Many current sophomores are counting down the days until they can move into their new apartments and their new, freer lifestyle away from campus housing. While more freedom certainly sounds inviting, one aspect of living off campus has me a little anxious- cooking for myself. As the complete opposite of a domestic spirit, I have to admit that I’m already nostalgic for the simplicity of Nolan’s and Char Mar. In preparation for this daunting challenge, I’ve turned to my loyal friend Pinterest for some quick, healthy, and delicious meal ideas for the culinary-challenged. All of you Anti-Martha Stewarts out there- you’re welcome.
Mango Chicken
-Preheat oven to 350 degrees
-Cover chicken with salsa and mango chunks
-Bake for 40 minutes
-Serve with rice or pasta
http://askannamoseley.com/2011/02/mango-chicken/
Spinach and Pepper Pita Pizza
-Preheat oven to 435 degrees
-Top mini pitas with spinach, red pepper, and cheese
-Add any spices you prefer
-Bake up to 10 minutes
http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/spinach-pepper-pizzas-30-minute-meals#slide-12
Broccoli Pasta
-Boil wheat pasta and small pieces of broccoli
-After pasta/broccoli is cooked, drain and add olive oil
and any spices you prefer
-Sprinkle cheese of your choice on top
http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/07/easiest-pasta-and-broccoli-recipe.html
Raspberry Ice Cream
-put frozen raspberries, yogurt, and honey
-blend until smooth
-freeze or serve straight from blender
http://www.penandspoon.com/2013/03/07/60-second-raspberry-ice-cream-delicious-childs-play/
All you soon-to-be juniors- now you’re all set for hosting your very own dinner party at your brand new apartment in the fall. In the meantime, you have all summer to practice perfecting your newly discovered culinary skills. Just kidding- enjoy the summer mooching off of your mother’s cooking back home. Come fall semester, remember when it comes to cooking, where there’s a Pinterest, there’s a way.