Nutrition and Meal Plans

Learn how to eat well on a student budget.

Healthy Breakfast Ideas

Overnight Oats

Prep time: 5 min

Prep the night before for a no cooking required snack.

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup milk or almond milk
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • Banana slices and honey

Greek Yogurt Parfait

Prep time: 3 min

Perfect for busy mornings.

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup granola
  • Mixed berries
  • Drizzle of honey

Scrambled Eggs and Toast

Prep time: 10 min

A high protien breakfast that keeps you awake during classes.

  • 2 to 3 large eggs
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • Handful of spinach
  • Salt, pepper, butter

PB Banana Smoothie

Prep time: 5 min

Easy to blend and can drink it on the way to your first class.

  • 1 banana
  • 1 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1 cup milk or oat milk
  • Protein powder (optional)

Healthy Lunch Ideas

Chicken and Rice Bowl

Prep time: 20 min

A balanced and filling meal with many carbs and proteins.

  • Grilled chicken breast
  • 1/2 cup brown rice
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Olive oil and seasoning

Tuna Wrap

Prep time: 5 min

Affordable easy to prepare and done in minutes.

  • 1 can tuna in water
  • Whole wheat tortilla
  • Lettuce and tomato
  • Light mayo or mustard

Lentil Soup

Prep time: 25 min

Cheap and easy to prep for the whole week.

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • Diced carrots and onion
  • Vegetable broth
  • Cumin and garlic

Quinoa Salad

Prep time: 15 min

Perfect to meal prep up to 5 days in advance.

  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • Cucumber and cherry tomatoes
  • Chickpeas
  • Lemon vinaigrette

Healthy Dinner Ideas

Stir-Fry Noodles

Prep time: 20 min

Great for using all vegrtables inm your fridge and full of carbs.

  • Rice noodles or lo mein
  • Mixed stir-fry vegetables
  • Soy sauce and sesame oil
  • 2 eggs or chicken strips

Baked Salmon and Veggies

Prep time: 25 min

Easy to clean up dinner made in one pan.

  • Salmon fillet
  • Asparagus or zucchini
  • Olive oil and garlic
  • Lemon slices

Black Bean Tacos

Prep time: 10 min

Quick vegitarian dinner made in minutes.

  • Corn tortillas
  • 1 can black beans
  • Shredded cabbage
  • Salsa and avocado

Pasta with Meat Sauce

Prep time: 25 min

Super simple always tasty and can be made days in advance.

  • Whole wheat pasta
  • Ground turkey or beef
  • Canned crushed tomatoes
  • Garlic, basil, oregano

Tips for Eating Well in College

Meal Prep on Sundays

Prepare ingredients for the entire week on a sunday can help save time and money.

Shop With a List

Best way to know what is best for you and your wallet is to know what you are buying.

Stock Up on Non perishables

Oats, rice, beans, and tuna are things that can last a very long time and are affordable.

Limit Fast Food

Eating out is always more expensive than cooking at home so make sure to limit it.

Balance Your Plate

Make sure you are eating balanced meals with at least one of everything on your plate.

Use Student Discounts

Use student discounts anywhere you can they are your best friend in College.