7 Simple and Quick Recipes Every Student Should Know

Being a student can be a hectic and busy time, with classes, assignments, and social activities taking up most of your day. It's easy to fall into the trap of relying on takeout or microwave meals, but learning a few simple and quick recipes can save you time, money, and ensure you're eating a nutritious meal. In this article, we'll explore seven delicious recipes that every student should know.

Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. To start, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, fry some bacon until crispy. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and immediately toss it in the bacon fat. Next, add the egg mixture and stir until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta. Serve with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Variations

While the traditional Pasta Carbonara recipe calls for bacon, you can easily switch it up by using pancetta or even vegetarian alternatives like mushrooms or tofu. Additionally, you can add vegetables like peas or spinach to make it a more well-rounded meal.

Stir-fry

Stir-fry is a versatile and quick recipe that allows you to use up any vegetables or protein you have on hand. Start by heating oil in a pan or wok over high heat. Add your choice of protein, such as chicken, beef, or tofu, and cook until browned. Remove the protein from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender-crisp. Return the protein to the pan and add a sauce of your choice, such as soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips

When making stir-fry, it's important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and you don't end up with overcooked or undercooked elements. Additionally, don't be afraid to experiment with different sauces and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A grilled cheese sandwich is the ultimate comfort food and requires minimal effort to make. Start by buttering one side of each slice of bread. Place one slice, butter side down, in a heated skillet or griddle. Layer your choice of cheese on top of the bread and cover it with the second slice, butter side up. Cook the sandwich on medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwich and cook the other side until golden brown as well. Cut in half and enjoy the gooey goodness!

Enhancements

While a classic grilled cheese sandwich is delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level by adding additional ingredients. Try adding sliced tomatoes, avocado, or bacon for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to create your perfect grilled cheese combination.

Omelette

An omelette is a quick and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Start by whisking together eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a pat of butter or a drizzle of oil. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and let it cook undisturbed until the edges start to set. Gently lift the edges with a spatula and tilt the pan to allow the uncooked eggs to flow to the edges. Add your choice of fillings, such as cheese, vegetables, or cooked meat, to one side of the omelette. Fold the other side over the fillings and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and the omelette is cooked through. Slide it onto a plate and enjoy!

Fillings

The beauty of an omelette is that you can customize it with your favorite fillings. Some popular options include cheddar cheese, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and ham. Don't be afraid to get creative and try new combinations!

Instant Noodles

Instant noodles are a staple for many students due to their convenience and affordability. While they may not be the healthiest option, you can easily elevate them by adding some extra ingredients. Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté some vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and green onions. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the pan with the vegetables. Toss everything together with the seasoning packet that comes with the noodles. For added flavor, you can also add soy sauce, sesame oil, or a squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy your upgraded instant noodles!

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional instant noodles, consider opting for rice noodles or whole wheat noodles. You can also add lean protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more balanced meal.

Quesadilla

A quesadilla is a quick and satisfying meal that can be made with just a few ingredients. Start by heating a tortilla in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over one half of the tortilla. Add any additional fillings you desire, such as cooked chicken, sautéed onions, or sliced bell peppers. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the fillings. Cook for a few minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.

Creative Fillings

While a classic quesadilla is made with cheese and maybe some chicken or beef, you can get creative with your fillings. Try adding ingredients like black beans, corn, jalapenos, or even pineapple for a unique twist.

Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs are a breakfast staple that can be whipped up in minutes. Start by cracking eggs into a bowl and whisking them until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add a pat of butter or a drizzle of oil. Pour the beaten eggs into the skillet and let them cook undisturbed for a few seconds. Gently stir the eggs with a spatula, pushing them from the edges towards the center. Continue stirring until the eggs are mostly set but still slightly runny. Remove the skillet from the heat, as the residual heat will continue cooking the eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Serve with toast or alongside your favorite breakfast sides.

Flavor Variations

While simple scrambled eggs are delicious on their own, you can easily add extra flavor by incorporating ingredients like cheese, herbs, or diced vegetables. Consider adding cheddar cheese, chives, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a burst of flavor.

Learning these seven simple and quick recipes will not only save you time and money but also ensure that you're eating delicious and nutritious meals. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, these recipes are perfect for any student looking to expand their culinary skills. So, put on your apron, grab your ingredients, and get cooking!