En la Cocina

As someone who has always enjoyed cooking, managing how to incorporate that into my college lifestyle has been a difficult transition. As with many college students, trying to find recipes that don't interfere with budget goals can be hard but, not impossible! In this new series, I will be sharing some of my favorite recipes I've come to love not just for the tatse, but for the price it was to make as well! Stay tuned! 

When summertime approaches, so does an array of seasonal refreshers and smoothies that come along to cool indiviudals down from the hot weather! Although great to have from time to time, the cost of these delicious drinks can add up and I'm happy to share one of my favorite drinks that has made the cost of seasonal drinks less by making my own favorites at home! 

Agua Frescas are a popular drink in Latino culture and a favorite of mine!  The best part of all: They are super easy and affordable to make at home! 

 Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large cucumbers (or 3 small ones) – about $0.75

• 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste) – pennies!

• Juice of 1 lime – about $0.50

• 2 cups cold water

• Ice cubes (optional but awesome)

• Chamoy (optional, but adds some extra sweet)

Total Time: 10 minutes

Estimated Cost: Under $5 

How to Make This Delicious Drink:

1. Wash and chop the cucumber
   No need to peel it unless you want a smoother texture. Just chop it into chunks.

2. Blend it up
   Toss the cucumber, sugar, lime juice, and water into a blender. Blend until smooth.

3. Strain (optional but great)
   If you like it super smooth, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. If you’re okay with pulp, skip this step.

4. Serve cold
   Pour over ice, dip your rim cup in chamoy before pouring if you have it and enjoy!

Cucumber agua fresca's are the ultimate budget-friendly drink—it's cheap, fast and refreshing. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a hydrating beverage that beats those expensive seasonal drinks runs!

Finding the time to make a balanced meal can be hard for college students who are always on the go! Luckily, Trader Joe's offers a variety of items that individuals can make quickly with a budget-friendly price tag. Today, I want to share how to make one of my favorite quick meals from Trader Joe's: Lemon Chicken and Veggies!  

For under $15 and ready in 10 minutes or less, this meal is sure to bring a healthier alternative to takeout!

What You’ll Need (All from Trader Joe’s!)

• 1 pack of Trader Joe’s Lemon Chicken (pre-cooked, refrigerated section) – about $5.99

• 1 pack of Asparagus Spears (pre-cooked, refrigerated section)  – around $3.49

• 1 pack of Brussels Sprouts (pre-cooked, refrigerated section)– around $3.49

• Optional: Olive oil spray, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder or lemon juice for extra flavoring!

• Heat All Three Items (Separately)

  1. Open the Trader Joe’s Lemon Chicken package.

  2. Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish.

  3. Cover loosely and microwave for 2–3 minutes, or until heated through.

  4. Repeat and do the same with Trader Joe's Asparagus and Brussel Sprouts. 

• Assemble your plate

  1. Arrange the veggies and chicken together.

  2. Drizzle any extra lemon sauce over the veggies for bonus flavor.

  3. Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra citrus.

This lemon chicken with asparagus and brussel sprouts is everyone's dream dinner: affordable and microwave-friendly. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for those with busy schedules.