5 easy and healthy meals + snacks you can make in a dorm room

Living in a dorm can be a great experience, but students cooking in a tiny space with limited equipment can make mealtime a challenge. Whether you’re tired of eating pizza or instant noodles, or just want to make sure you’re getting nutritious food to fuel your studies, there are plenty of simple, healthy meals you can prepare in your dorm room. All you need are a few basic ingredients and a little creativity.

All recipes are for one serving size, adjust quantity as needed.

1. Microwave spinach and feta omelette

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup spinach
• ¼ cup white onion
• ¼ cup red bell pepper
• ¼ cup feta cheese

In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the eggs, spinach, chopped bell peppers, onions, and feta cheese. Microwave for 2 minutes until the eggs are set, and voila! You have a high-protein, veggie-packed meal that’s ready in minutes. Add a side of whole-grain bread or toast, and you’ve got yourself a filling breakfast or lunch.

2. Overnight oats

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup rolled oats
• ⅓ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons chia seeds
• 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• ¼ cup fresh berries
• ¼ cup almonds

Overnight oats are an incredibly easy and healthy breakfast that requires no cooking at all. In a mason jar or bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk (or any milk of your choice), a dollop of Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Let it sit in the fridge overnight, and in the morning, you’ll have a delicious, creamy, and filling breakfast. Top with fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.

3. Hummus and veggie wrap

When you’re craving something light and fresh, try a hummus and veggie wrap. Spread hummus on a whole-wheat wrap, then pile on your favorite veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, spinach, and shredded carrots. Add some feta cheese or grilled chicken for extra protein. Wrap it up and enjoy a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal in minutes. You can even prep these ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a grab-and-go lunch.

4. Chickpea salad

Ingredients:

• ½ cup chickpeas
• ¼ cup cucumber
• ¼ cup tomato
• ¼ cup red onion
• ¼ cup red pepper
• ¼ cup feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• pinch of salt and pepper

Optional:

• ¼ cup olives
• half an avocado
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Chickpeas are high in protein and fibre, making them a great base for a no-cook salad. Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, and mix with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and feta cheese. Add some olives, avocado, or lemon juice for extra flavour if needed. Dress with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This salad is fresh, filling, and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare.

5. Stuffed bell peppers

Ingredients:

• 1 bell pepper
• ½ cup either tuna, beans, or quinoa (or multiple if preferred)
• ¼ cup cucumbers
• ¼ cup tomatoes
• ¼ cup red onion

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon guacamole
• 1 tablespoon salsa
• ¼ cup shredded cheese

Grab some bell peppers, cut off the tops to create a “cup,” and scoop out the insides. Fill them with canned tuna, beans, or quinoa, along with diced veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. You can also top them with some salsa, guacamole, or shredded cheese if preferred. You can also microwave the peppers with cheese on top to serve warm. These stuffed peppers are light, filling, and nutrient-packed.