Going away to college can be really hard. It’s the first time you are living on your own, and you have so many new responsibilities. If you are living on campus, this might include living in a dorm that includes a kitchenette. This also might mean that it’s your first time cooking for yourself. For me, when I moved in at the beginning of the year, this was my case. I had no idea what I was going to make for all 3 meals of the day. For a while, I ate things that were easy and that I knew I liked. However, not only were these meals not the healthiest (mainly because they were microwavable and don’t have fresh ingredients), but I realized I was falling into a rhythm of eating the same handful of meals week after week. Now, I have become way more creative with my meals and know to keep it creative even if it’s simple.
1. Avocado toast
I don’t know about you, but when I am out getting breakfast and avocado toast is on the menu, I know that’s what I will be having. I personally like mine with lemon juice or olive oil, onion, smoked salmon, and lots of capers! And while some of those ingredients are expensive, there is still a way to make it feel like you are brunching with your BFFs at home. What I like to do is use ciabatta bread and a fresh avocado, and I mash it myself. I then put a few big pieces of smoked salmon on and finish it with olive oil, and salt and pepper. I love it when the avocado has some extra flavor too, so sometimes I even put a small pinch of salt before the salmon. This is a healthy breakfast, but also easy.
2. Eggs with Chile flakes and bacon
This is my new favorite to eat on the weekends or right after class. Like I mentioned before, I have been trying to spice up my breakfast and this is one of the new recipes I have been trying this week. I like to have my eggs sunny side up, and after I cook them, I heat up my microwavable bacon. As an embellishment, I add about 1-2 teaspoons of Trader Joe’s “Crunchy Chili Onion” flakes. I also love to put a little bit of oil from the jar for extra flavor. These flakes are not super spicy but they are kind of sweet and very crunchy.
3. Granola bar/coffee
We all have some days where we are just so action-packed we might not have time for a real meal. For these days, I recommend a granola bar and a cup of coffee. Back in highschool, I did this before leaving for school because I knew I wouldn’t be eating lunch for another few hours. If you do this, you at least have something in your stomach and you can start your day. I love the Caramel Almond and Sea Salt, and the Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt flavors of kind bars. I also have been really loving the PB and J granola bars from Trader Joes. To me, these really do taste like real peanut butter and jelly! If you are nostalgic for an old-school favorite, these are the ones for you.
4. Acai bowl
I love acai bowls because there are so many different versions you can have! When I get mine at my local smoothie shop, I usually love having pineapple, strawberry, raspberry, acai or dragon fruit, all topped with coconut flakes. You can make your own at home by buying these ingredients. This way, you can personalize it with your favorite fruits and garnishes like honey or coconut flakes. Rushing out the door? No problem! You can either make them the night before and microwave them for a few seconds, or buy a pre-made frozen one at your grocer. I do this a lot and my favorite brand is Sambazon.
5. Homemade matcha latte with almond milk
This isn’t really a true breakfast meal, but I wanted to add this one to the list for those who don’t drink coffee, or if you want to have something a little more fun than coffee or juice. What I do for my matcha latte is simple- put some ice in a cup (I usually do 4-6 cubes), pour the almond milk to the amount I want, and add a packet of matcha and stir. I use the packets of matcha instead of the jars because I feel that they already supply enough in each packet. Plus, it’s cheaper. I also have been loving pre-sweetened matcha lately. I use the brand AIYA. I like this kind specifically because when I put the sugar in myself, it doesn’t dissolve and just sinks to the bottom. It also gives the perfect amount of sweetness.
If you find yourself falling into the same rut of breakfasts, or want to try something new, then these are the tips for you. These are great healthy options. So whether you are rushing off to class or craving a slow brunch-esque meal, these breakfasts are perfect for you.