9 Simple Meal Prep Ideas for Busy Students on a Budget

Being a student means classes, homework, social life, and part-time jobs, which means having little time to cook. Meal prepping can help you save time, avoid stress, and budget to save on food. Below are nine quick weekday meal prep ideas you can do without breaking the bank.

1. Overnight Oats

Breakfast overnight oats are great for the busy college student. They need a few ingredients and are super easy to whip up. There is nothing else required but rolled oats, milk of your preference (or a dairy substitute), and fruit, nuts, or seeds. Simply mix it all in a jar before bed, store it in the fridge, and wake up to breakfast you can have on the go. There are many ways to spice up your oats, such as peanut butter and banana or cinnamon and honey. So, you get a variety of options without having to spend extra money.

2. Rice and Beans

Rice and beans are cheap and protein-rich. They can be packed up for the entire week. This basic meal can be spiced up with veggies and hot sauce of your preference.

Main Benefits:

• Low-cost ingredients.
• Protein and fiber-rich.
• Convenient to cook in big amounts.
• Freezable.

Prepare them in bulk on Sunday, and you will have lunch or dinner for a few days.

3. Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is another nutritious meal prep because it can be eaten cold and will last several days in the fridge. Simply use any vegetables you like, add protein such as chicken or chickpeas, and cooked pasta, and toss everything in an easy olive oil and vinegar dressing. Choose seasonal vegetables and less expensive proteins such as canned tuna or beans. Add a little cheese or avocado for creaminess if you’re feeling fancy!

4. Stir-fry veggies with Tofu or Chicken

A stir-fry is quick, healthy, and easily customized. Vegetables can be fresh or frozen, and you can use tofu or chicken as an easy protein source. Stir-fry is convenient because you can use whatever veggies you have, which means you won’t waste too much food.

Whip up a huge amount and keep it in smaller containers for an emergency weeknight meal. Give it a go with rice or noodles, and you will cook it again, guaranteed!

5. Egg Muffins

Egg muffins are a protein-rich and affordable meal to make for breakfast or lunch. Just whisk eggs, add vegetables, ham, or other deli meat, and put the mixture into a muffin pan. Bake it for 15-20 minutes, and you will have something to eat for days.

6. Chicken and Veggie Wraps

Wraps are easy to make and very customizable. You can also prepare the ingredients ahead of time – chop the cooked chicken and dice vegetables – and then put them in the fridge for easy wraps for lunch or dinner throughout the week. To make it healthier and more substantial, use whole wheat tortillas.

7. Soup

Soups are hearty and ideal for batch cooking. There’s nothing more hearty on a busy evening than a bowl of hot soup made of lentils, potatoes, and vegetables. Split pea soup, lentil soup, and even tomato soup are cheap and very easy to make. You can save individual bowls of soup in containers and always have a meal on hand.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are cheap, nutritious, and tasty. Bake some sweet potatoes and stuff them with black beans, salsa, avocado, or cheese for a filling and balanced meal.

You can serve sweet potatoes with chicken or other meats as well for a more substantial lunch or dinner.

9. Mason Jar Salads

Layered salads in mason jars make great, easy dinners that last for days. Cover the bottom with dressing, then layer beans, quinoa, vegetables, and greens. This doesn’t ruin the greens and makes it simple to mix everything up when you’re ready to eat.

For students, making even these fast and easy meals can be hard because of their packed schedules. Even so, your health should come first, so if you are struggling to find time to cook for yourself, you can try an easy-to-use essay writing service to supplement your studies. This will give you an opportunity to prepare your meals in advance, ensuring that your nutritional needs are met every day.

Prep for Success

A student doesn’t need to spend a fortune prepping meals. These quick meal prep tips will help you not only save time and money but also have a good, nutritious meal to enjoy whenever you need it. Whether you’re having overnight oats for breakfast or stir-fry veggies for dinner, these pocket-friendly meals will have you fuelled and prepared for whatever comes your way that day. Happy prepping!