Written by Lexie Clark
Easy and affordable (nutritional) meals for people who don’t like to cook
One of the biggest learning curves of moving out of home and heading off to uni, is learning how to cook for yourself, whilst staying within your uni-budget! Here are my top 3 microwave recipes that are easy, healthy, and affordable!
Breakfast
Classic Porridge
You know what I love about porridge? It’s so quick, comforting, and versatile; the topping options are endless!
What you’ll need: (serves 1)
- ½ cup of rolled oats
- 1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup of water (to adjust consistency)
- ½ tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Toppings of your choice
Instructions:
- Add the oats, milk, and half of the water to a microwave-safe bowl and mix together.
- Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the oats are soft and the porridge has thickened (usually 2-3 minutes total depending on your microwave). Add the rest of the water if needed.
- Stir in your honey or maple syrup.
- Serve hot and add your favourite toppings – get creative!
Some of my favourite topping combos are:
- sliced apple, cinnamon, and brown sugar,
- sliced banana, peanut butter, and honey, or
- shredded coconut and fresh berries when they are in season!
Lunch
Deconstructed sushi bowl
What you’ll need: (serves 1)
- Microwave rice cup
- Small tin of tuna – any flavour (hot tip: teriyaki tuna goes perfectly)
- Seaweed sheets (the mini ones are perfect for this recipe)
- Toppings of choice: I recommend sesame seeds, diced cucumber, and avocado when it’s in season!
Instructions:
- Microwave your rice according to the cooking instructions
- Add your rice to a bowl then top with tuna and toppings of your choice
- Serve with a side of mini seaweed sheets and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Dinner
Loaded burrito bowl
What you’ll need: (serves 1)
- Microwave rice cup (I recommend the Mexican style rice for this recipe, but any rice will work)
- Mini tin of black beans
- Mini tin of corn
- Handful of cornchips
- Toppings of choice: grated cheese, sour cream, lettuce, cucumber, avocado, tomato, or salsa.
Instructions:
- Drain tinned items
- Throw your rice, black beans, and corn into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 45-60 seconds.
- Top with whatever toppings you like
- Serve with some corn chips on the side and enjoy!
I hope you enjoy these tips for easy microwave meals that are cheap, delicious, and quick!
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