A package of ramen can be used as a foundation for a frugal, nutrient dense snack.  Ditch the salty seasoning packet and unleash your creativity in designing flavors from what you already have in your fridge or pantry.

Yield:  1-2 servings

Ingredients

Protein Choices

Egg - scrambled or boiled| Cooked chicken breast | Crispy tofu | 1 cup Chickpeas or black beans

Vegetable/Fruit Choices

Avocado slices |Cilantro | Sugar snap or snow peas | Shredded or sliced cooked carrot | Red or green pepper, diced 

Condiment or an Acid Choices

Lime  wedges or juice | Red hot sauce | 1 or 2 tablespoons soy or tamari sauce | 1 tablespoon oyster sauce | 1 cup broth

Texture Choices

Minced red onion | 1 teaspoon sesame seeds | 1 teaspoon everything seasoning mix | 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips | 2 tablespoons fried onions | 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts or cashews

Instructions

1. Cook ramen to the package directions (minus the seasoning mix)

2. Prepare your choice of protein and vegetables.  Check your fridge and cupboards for options that sound appetizing to you.

3. Drain the cooked ramen.

4. Divide ramen into two or three bowls.  Set out vegetables, sauce or condiment, and texture components for others (and yourself) to create their own dish.

Notes

1. Before beginning:  Clean your work surfaces, start your hot, soapy dishwater, and assemble all of your ingredients and equipment.

2. This recipe is called a challenge because you're being asked to take a few more steps to boost the nutrients.  The pay off is a heartier meal that gives your body more nutrients to fuel your daily activities and studies.

3. This recipe was inspired by Johnson and Wales' University Assistant Professor William Lendway's Seven Circles principles, as generously shared through a collaborative project with U of MN Food Science undergraduates in 2022.