Not going to lie, the first time I went grocery shopping in college, my red Target cart was overflowing with Lunchables, pizza rolls, potato chips, and ramen. After over a month in college, I have learned that eating healthy is no easy feat. From grabbing ice cream with every girl that bothered to say hi, to the all-you-can-eat pizza in every dining hall on campus, unhealthy options seemed like the only option. However, I have come a long way in a month and have learned not only that can you fit over 10 Lunchables into a mini-fridge but keeping healthy food in your dorm room is the simplest way to eat clean on campus. It might seem impossible to find healthy food that won’t break the bank while you’re winding through the never-ending aisles of the grocery store, so we’ve made it easy by putting together 10 full proof options to satisfy every craving while still keeping you on track.
1. Peanut Butter
a. Great news! Not only is peanut butter delicious but it is easily one of the cheapest foods at the grocery store. Even better, it’s super healthy for you too. Make sure you check those ingredients and find a product that contains no sugary additives or high fructose corn syrup. If you’re unlike me and are opposed to eating it with a spoon, we recommend pairing with apples, or on a rice cake for a quick, healthy breakfast.
2. Black Bean Burgers
. If you are like the majority of the population, you probably think black bean burgers are just for vegetarians and vegans, and I hate to break it to you, but you’re WRONG! So the next time you’re cramming for a big test and can’t make it to the dining hall for dinner, no problem. Pop a black bean burger in the microwave and eat it with an English muffin or some frozen veggies.
3. Instant Oatmeal
. If you ever need a cheap and filling meal, pick up some instant oatmeal. Opt for plain oatmeal and add in some honey, dried or fresh fruit, cinnamon, or some peanut butter to flavor to avoid all those processed sugars while still having a flavor-packed meal.
4. Brown Rice
. Instant brown rice is a cheap, complex carb that will keep you full. It’s also great because it pairs well with anything you have lying around in your fridge: frozen or fresh veggies, leftover chicken, or even those black bean burgers. Throw whatever it is on top of the rice and dinner is served.
5. Apples
. Fruit is great and super healthy, but if you’re like me, it always seems to go bad or smell. So to avoid being the roommate who stinks up the room with overripe bananas grab some apples for a quick snack instead.
6. Hummus
. Hummus is another option that keeps well for over a month and pairs well with a variety of foods; our personal favorites are pita chips or baby carrots.
7. Protein Bars
. Protein bars are great for crazy busy days when you need a meal on the go. There are also so many flavor options so you will never get bored. Our recommendations? Try out Rx pumpkin spice bars for a fun, seasonal taste!
8. Nuts
. Nuts are great to eat by themselves for a quick snack or to mix with other yummy items such as oatmeal or pretzels.
9. Popcorn
. Popcorn is cheap, healthy, and let’s face it, who doesn’t like to come back from a long day of classes and relax by watching some Netflix and eating a snack? Our personal favorites include ready-made options such as Boom Chicka Pop, Smart Food, or Skinny Pop.
10. Dark Chocolate
. Yes, you read that right- chocolate! Dark chocolate has been proven to reduce stress and help you focus; so, next time a big test rolls around, grab some dark chocolate, and hit the books- completely guilt-free.