The weeks between summer and fall bring about half-changed wardrobes and seasonal decorations despite near ninety degree weather in the afternoons. This also means the unwelcome presence of seasonal allergies, cold season, and decision fatigue of never knowing what you’re going to want to eat next. Fortunately, meal prep doesn’t have to be daunting, and there are versatile options for whatever the day calls for.
One Pot Pasta
Whether you are in the midst of midterms and low on time or are struggling through seasonal allergies, one-pot recipes can be life-savers and easy meal-prep options. A versatile and simple recipe for when you’re out of commission is a ginger and garlic noodle soup. Start by heating up broth (I used chicken) until it boils. Use 2-3 cups for two servings, depending on how much broth to noodle you prefer. When it’s boiling, add one cup of any noodles you have, then a teaspoon of minced garlic and a quarter of minced ginger, to taste. These can be found in most stores and last long enough to make roughly a months worth of meals. They can easily be added to stir-fries for extra flavor. Once your noodles have cooked, you can add your favorite vegetables, meat, or even eggs for a savory ramen. This recipe can be changed every time you make it- you could only add vegetables- like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots- or choose different meats like chicken or pork. You could also swap the noodles for rice and make a chicken and rice soup. These meals are comforting and nutritious, especially when it cools down in mid to late October.
On The Go
Sometimes, its hard to make time for meals with a busy schedule. Packing easy to eat foods and having a variety of quick meals can prevent you from feeling rushed. A filling and quick breakfast in the mornings could be sometihng like oatmeal. Overnight oats are very popular because they are easy to make and low in ingredients. There are many different recipes, and usually only require oats, milk or yogurt, and a sweetener like honey or sugar. You can then add whatever you want- fresh fruit, nuts, chocolate chips- and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Even instant oats can be made more filling with fruit like apples or nut butter, and flavored with cinnamon and honey. For hot days, yogurt, fruit and granola with a drizzle of honey is a satisfying alternative.
It can seem like a chore to cook and tempting to order dinners to avoid the stress of shopping and prepping. However, it can be a relief to come home to a stocked fridge, knowing you already have a plan in place. It’s still important to enjoy meals out and take a break from cooking, but you can have a variety of healthy homecooked meals, too. You don’t have to be a chef to enjoy home-cooked food on campus. Happy fall!