Easy Meals For Students Quick And Simple Recipes For Busy Days

As a student, juggling between classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities can leave you with little time to prepare a decent meal. It's important to eat well to stay energized and focused throughout the day. That's why we've put together a list of easy meals for students that are quick, simple, and nutritious.

Table of Contents

• Quesadilla
• Stir Fry
• Pasta
• Tuna Salad
• Omelette
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich
• Burrito Bowl

Quesadilla

Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be made with just a few ingredients. All you need is a tortilla, cheese, and your favorite toppings.

How to Make a Quesadilla

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle shredded cheese on one half.
3. Add your favorite toppings like sliced bell peppers, diced onions or cooked chicken.
4. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole.

Tips

• Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack, cheddar, or mozzarella.
• Use leftover cooked meat or vegetables as toppings.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Quick and easy to make, customizable, and can be made with pantry staples.

Cons: Can be high in calories and sodium depending on the type of cheese and toppings used.

Stir Fry

Stir fry is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and protein. It's a one-pan meal that can be made in under 20 minutes.

How to Make Stir Fry

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, broccoli or carrots and stir fry for 2-3 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add protein like sliced chicken or tofu in the center.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the protein is browned.
5. Add cooked rice or noodles to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Season with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to taste.

Tips

• Use a variety of vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
• Swap out the protein for shrimp, beef or pork.
• Use pre-cooked rice or noodles to save time.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Quick and easy to make, can use up leftover ingredients, customizable, and healthy.

Cons: Requires a large skillet or wok, can be high in sodium depending on the sauce used.

Pasta

Pasta is a classic comfort food that can be made in many different ways. It's a great option for a quick and easy meal that can be made with just a few ingredients.

How to Make Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of cooking water.
3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
4. Add chopped garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add canned tomatoes or tomato sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
7. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved cooking water to thin it out.

Tips

• Add protein like cooked chicken or shrimp to make it more filling.
• Experiment with different types of pasta like penne, spaghetti or linguine.
• Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Quick and easy to make, customizable, and can be made with pantry staples.

Cons: Can be high in carbohydrates depending on the type of pasta used.

Tuna Salad

Tuna salad is a great option for a light and refreshing meal. It's packed with protein and healthy fats that will keep you full and satisfied.

How to Make Tuna Salad

1. Drain a can of tuna and add it to a mixing bowl.
2. Add chopped celery, red onion, and pickles to the bowl.
3. Mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
5. Serve on top of salad greens or bread.

Tips

• Add chopped apple or grapes for a sweet and crunchy twist.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.
• Serve with crackers for a quick snack.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Quick and easy to make, packed with protein and healthy fats.

Cons: Can be high in sodium depending on the type of tuna used.

Omelette

Omelettes are a great option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They're easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

How to Make an Omelette

1. Beat two eggs in a mixing bowl and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter.
3. Pour the eggs into the pan and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add your favorite fillings like cheese, ham, mushrooms or spinach.
5. Use a spatula to fold the omelette in half and cook for another minute.
6. Serve with toast or a side salad.

Tips

• Use leftover cooked vegetables or meat as fillings.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for extra flavor.
• Add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the eggs for a fluffier texture.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Quick and easy to make, customizable, and can be made with pantry staples.

Cons: Can be high in cholesterol if eaten frequently.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food that can be made in minutes. They're perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

How to Make a Grilled Cheese Sandwich

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of two slices of bread.
3. Place one slice of bread buttered side down in the pan.
4. Add sliced cheese on top of the bread.
5. Top with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Cut into halves or quarters and serve with tomato soup.

Tips