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Being a college student our lives are often hectic. We try to balance our classes, assignments, work, and social life. We often neglect ourselves— combined with a tight budget and limited kitchen resources, meal prepping seems like a huge challenge. But eating well doesn't have to mean hours of cooking or buying expensive ingredients that break the bank!
Many students, including myself, struggle with cooking for themselves. Often I struggle with getting groceries that are within my budget. One incredible resource on campus that I frequently use is our very own Food Resource Center (FRC). The FRC provides Hamline students and nearby community members with free food options such as fresh fruits, vegetables, bread and pasta, a variety of meats, and even halal options. The FRC always strives to bridge the gap of food insecurity. They offer a wide variety of ingredients that can help people prepare balanced meals without hurting their wallets. The FRC would love to see more people come through the doors!
(Source: INeedText.com )
Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and patted dry
1 tbsp olive oil
1½ tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp lime zest
1½ tsp lime juice
¼ tsp sea salt
Instructions:
Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Spread chickpeas in a single layer in the basket, shaking off loose skins. Air fry for 20-30 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes, until crispy.
While chickpeas cook, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
After chickpeas are done, cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with the spice mix and toss to coat. Let cool completely before serving.
Ingredients:
1 bagel
2 large eggs
Olive oil
A pinch of salt
3 slices turkey (deli-style)
1 slice mozzarella or provolone cheese
½ tbsp whipped cream cheese
½ avocado
2 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
Make an omelet with eggs, olive oil, and salt. Cook for about 2 minutes on medium-high heat.
Heat turkey slices in a skillet or microwave until warm.
Assemble the sandwich: toast the bagel, add cream cheese, avocado, lettuce, omelet, cheese, and turkey
Ingredients:
6 Oreos (regular or double stuffed)
4 tbsp whole milk
2 tsp neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
½ tsp vanilla
2 tsp sugar
2 tsp all-purpose flour
2 tsp cocoa powder
⅓ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Instructions:
In a microwave-safe mug (10 oz or larger), add the Oreos and milk.
Use a fork to crush the Oreos until its a fine powder.
Stir in oil, vanilla, and sugar.
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt, then mix until combined (don’t overmix).
Microwave for 70-90 seconds until cooked through, let it rest for 60 seconds and check after to avoid over cooking
Serving Tip: Top with melted chocolate/chocolate chips or crushed Oreos for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy warm!
Microwave Tips:
For a gooey texture, aim for 70 seconds.
For a fully baked texture, go for 90 seconds.
Ingredients:
1/2 cups of mayonnaise
¼ cups of of ketchup
A pinch of black pepper
1 teaspoon of lemon juice ( adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon of low sodium soy sauce ( optional)
Instructions:
Mix all of these ingredients together then Chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, take it out and enjoy!
Written by Hermela Yemane '26