When it comes to college life, eating healthy on a budget can seem like an impossible task. With limited funds and a hectic schedule, it’s tempting to reach for cheap, unhealthy meals. However, maintaining a nutritious diet doesn’t have to break the bank. In this article, we will provide you with some wallet-friendly and delicious recipes that will keep you nourished throughout your college journey.
Mushroom, Bacon, and Spinach Egg Muffins:
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that includes healthy greens. These mushroom, bacon, and spinach egg muffins are not only nutritious but also easy on the wallet.
Price: INR 412/-
Ingredients:
- ½ an onion, diced (INR 16/-)
- 10 pieces of bacon, diced (INR 245/-)
- 2 cups of mushrooms, sliced (INR 45/-)
- 2 cups of spinach, finely chopped (INR 19/-)
- 10 eggs (INR 87/-)
- ½ tsp. Salt
- ½ tsp. Pepper
- 2 tbsp. Healthy Alternatives Pure Olive Oil
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until it starts to crisp up, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. While the bacon is cooking, dice the onions, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk them together.
- Add the mushrooms, onions, spinach, bacon, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix everything together.
- Grease a large muffin tray with olive oil. Alternatively, use muffin tray liners.
- Spoon the egg mixture into the muffin tray, filling each section about ¾ of the way.
- Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes before serving.
Spiced Tofu Buddha Bowl
Enjoy a savory and wholesome lunch with this spiced tofu buddha bowl. Packed with nourishing toppings, it’s a budget-friendly option that won’t make you compromise on taste or nutrition.
Price: INR 463/-
Ingredients:
- ½ pound of firm tofu (INR 90/-)
- ⅓ package of taco seasoning mix (INR 55/-)
- ¼ cup of salsa (INR 130/-)
- ¾ cup of brown rice (INR 99/-)
- 1 cup of kale (INR 35/-)
- ½ tomato, chopped (INR 18/-)
- ½ lemon (INR 12/-)
- ¼ cup of coriander (INR 24/-)
Instructions:
- Cook the brown rice as usual, and once cooked, add the juice of one lemon, cilantro, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour ¼ jar of salsa into a skillet. Cube the tofu into 1-inch squares and add them to the skillet. Cook until the salsa and tofu are warmed thoroughly, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the tofu. Heat the tofu over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as you go.
- Toss the tofu, ensuring it is evenly heated and coated in the taco seasoning, for about 4-6 minutes.
- Assemble the buddha bowl by layering the brown rice, kale, tomatoes, and tofu mix. Garnish with salsa.
Paleo Chicken and Broccoli
For a quick, easy, and gluten-free dinner, try this flavorful paleo chicken and broccoli dish. It’s a nutritious option that can be prepared in just a few minutes, perfect for busy college days.
Price: INR 348/-
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of Healthy Alternatives Pure Olive Oil
- 3 cups of broccoli, cut into bite-size pieces (INR 113/-)
- 1½ tablespoon of grated ginger (INR 10/-)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic powder (INR 75/-)
- 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes (or to taste) (INR 45/-)
- ⅔ cup of soy sauce (INR 50/-)
- 400g of chicken, cut into bite-size pieces (INR 55/-)
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet and add the broccoli, ginger, salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until the broccoli starts to soften.
- Add the chicken and increase the heat to high.
- Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, stirring regularly, for about 5 minutes.
- Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or as it is.
Eating healthy on a budget is not only possible but also essential for your overall well-being. With these wallet-friendly and nutritious recipes, you can enjoy delicious meals without compromising on nutrition or breaking the bank. Remember, a little planning, creativity, and smart shopping can go a long way in maintaining a healthy diet throughout your college journey. So, get cooking and nourish yourself with these affordable and tasty dishes that will keep you energized and focused on your path to success!
