Living in a dorm with only a fridge and microwave is extremely challenging. During my freshman year, I had a really difficult time finding things that I wanted to eat that I was able to make in my room. It’s not always possible to go out to eat or go to the dining hall if you’re sick or have a lot of work to do. Over the year, I figured out some really great microwaveable meals that taste good and aren’t completely unhealthy.
I’m a huge fan of Trader Joe’s and their frozen food section is one of the best. I often found myself making their gnocchi. The frozen gnocchi from TJ’s comes with sauce and cheese in it. All you need is a microwave safe bowl, and you have a delicious meal in minutes. Another thing I love to get is their burritos. They have them in the fresh food section and you just microwave them for a few minutes in the paper. There are a few different kinds, but the bean and cheese one is my favorite by far. Breakfast can be difficult, especially when a toaster isn’t allowed. TJ’s 99¢ Greek yogurts are a great breakfast option with some berries and granola mixed in.
Keeping snacks in your room is a necessity. I’m a huge fan of cheese and crackers. Most grocery stores will have pre-cut cheese that you can keep in your fridge and munch on without needing a knife. Chips and salsa are also a good option. I also would take Ziplock bags to the dining hall and fill them up with cereal to save some money. Also, if you don’t have ice trays in your freezer, you can fill a bag with ice in the dining hall as well. Making your own sandwiches is another great way to save your own money and your meal plan.
I hope some of these tips are helpful. Use this go-to list the next time you go grocery shopping. Best of luck and try not to buy only Ben and Jerry’s!
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Greek yogurt
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Berries
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Deli meat
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Bread
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Condiments (mayo, ketchup, mustard, etc.)
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Crackers
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Pre-cut cheese
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Chips
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Salsa
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Hummus
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Carrots
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