As the whirlwind of university life engulfs students, prioritizing a nutritious diet often takes a backseat to academic and social demands. However, mastering a few healthy, quick, and cheap recipes can be a game-changer. Embracing these culinary skills not only promotes physical well-being but also saves money and time. With a selection of balanced and effortless recipes at their fingertips, students can elevate their energy levels, sharpen their focus, and achieve academic excellence while savouring delicious meals that won't break the bank. We explore some entry level meals that will help students seeking a path to success through a well-nourished body and mind.

Here are five easy and budget-friendly recipes suitable for students:

1. Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice: Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice

• Assorted vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame oil, sesame seeds

Instructions:

• Cook rice according to package instructions.
• Heat vegetable oil in a pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and stir for a minute.
• Add chopped vegetables to the pan and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
• Pour in the soy sauce (and optional sesame oil) over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
• Serve the stir-fried vegetables over the cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

1. Pasta with Tomato Sauce: Ingredients:

• 200g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any preferred type)

• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional)

Instructions:

• Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until 'al dente' according to package instructions.
• In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Top with grated cheese if desired.

1. Bean and Cheese Quesadillas: Ingredients:

• 4 large flour tortillas

• 1 can (400g) of your favorite beans (black beans, kidney beans, etc.)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• Salsa or sour cream for serving

Instructions:

• Rinse and drain the beans. If using black or kidney beans, lightly mash them with a fork.
• Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the pan and sprinkle half of it with shredded cheese.
• Spread half of the beans over the cheese, sprinkle with a pinch of cumin (if using), and fold the tortilla in half.
• Cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the tortilla becomes crispy. Flip and cook the other side.
• Repeat the process with the other tortillas.
• Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa or sour cream.

1. Simple Tuna Salad: Ingredients:

• 2 cans (160g each) canned tuna, drained

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced cucumber
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bread or salad leaves for serving

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until well combined.
• Add diced red onion and cucumber to the tuna mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve the tuna salad in sandwiches or on a bed of salad leaves.

1. Microwave Mug Cake: Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• A splash of vanilla extract

Instructions:

• In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
• Add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients in the mug. Mix until smooth and no lumps remain.
• Microwave the mug cake on high for about 1 minute and 30 seconds (microwave times may vary). The cake should rise and become firm.
• Let it cool for a moment before enjoying your delicious single-serving cake!

These recipes are quick, easy, and won't break the bank. Happy cooking!