As a second-year student, the housing and dining situation is quite different than as first-year students. All first-year students are required to have a full meal plan with lots of swipes and bonus dollars. As a second year we were not allowed to choose our plan, and the smallest allowed plan is what I currently have. This originally sounded like a great idea because I knew I would save money, and I was excited to have more freedom to make my own food. The only downside… we only have one kitchen for the entire dorm building. So, for the meals I do not use my meal plan, I must get creative with no cook, dorm-friendly meals.
I am trying to branch out even more and find different ideas but currently I have a nice rotation of quick and easy options. I am also a college athlete and often get back from practice 5-10 minutes before my first class starts. Also, as an athlete, I am trying to prioritize and increase my daily protein intake to help build muscle and keep my weight full longer. All these meal ideas have protein and fiber which help with both of those goals.
Super Quick Breakfast Ideas: Overnight oats! This has been an absolute lifesaver for me! I make it the night before and it sits in my mini fridge for multiple hours and is ready for me when I am running from practice right to class.
My go to recipe (though I usually do not measure and just go off vibes):
¾ cup oats
1 cup protein Greek yogurt
Generous sprinkle of chia/ flax/ hemp seeds
¾ cup milk
Drizzle of honey
Chocolate chips (optional but delicious)
Less Quick Breakfast Ideas: I am really an oatmeal girl so if I have more than 2 minutes, I will make a bowl of hot protein oatmeal with fruit I snagged from the dining hall. As a sophomore I have gotten particularly good at being resourceful and adding fruit to my breakfast from the night before. This is one of my favorite hacks!
On the Go Lunch Ideas: I have recently become a fan of on the go packets of tuna with a pack of whole wheat crackers. The protein to calorie ratio with tuna is super high which is great for a hearty quick lunch. I will also look to pair it with a type of veggie like baby carrots which are extremely easy to keep in my fridge.
More time Lunch Ideas: If I have more time and access a microwave, I like to make different packaged lunches with a base carb and added veggie and protein. Usually, I make a cup of protein mac and cheese or a bowl of pasta/ rice with a bone broth packet. Bone broth is a super effortless way to increase the protein of the meal with low calories. It also makes the rice/ pasta taste super delicious.
All of these meals can be adjusted to specific taste preferences. I have had a lot of luck with these meals, and I know they will make mealtime just a little less stressful when you live in a dorm!