Simple and Cost Effective Food for College Students

Figuring out what to eat in college is a lot more challenging than it sounds. Along with having a packed schedule, college students often face challenges in the areas of grocery money, kitchen space and cooking skills when write example of annotated bibliography for their homework. If you just can't stand to eat one more tasteless meal in the cafeteria, give these simple meals a try.

Breakfast

Breakfast foods shouldn't be relegated to mornings only. Cold cereal, instant oatmeal or toast and fresh fruit are delicious and filling any time of the day. If you have access to a full kitchen, stock up on Bisquick Shake 'n Pour and store-brand blueberry muffin mix. Both are very cheap, require very few ingredients (sometimes only water), and taste just like home cooking.

Lunch

Boxed macaroni and cheese is a staple college student food. Make it a little healthier by adding some tuna and peas or mixed vegetables and canned chicken. You can try eating like the English by making a plowman's lunch, which consists of bread and butter, chunks of cheese and a pickle.

Dinner

Quesadillas are cheap and very easy to make. Simply put some shredded cheese between two wheat tortillas and heat, either in the microwave or in a pan on the stove. You can get creative by adding vegetables, meats and salsa. Grab a microwaveable Indian meal pouch and a box of minute rice the next time you're at the grocery store for a quick, cheap meal that's unbelievably tasty.

Snacks

Fresh or dried fruit is the perfect college student food thanks to the instant energy boost it provides. Dry-roasted nuts and seeds have enough protein to keep you feeling full until your next meal. And don't underestimate the hunger-squashing power of a granola bar or baggie of cereal when your stomach starts rumbling in the middle of class.

If you're on your own for the first time, it can be tempting to exist on nothing but junk food. Remember that the quick energy you get from candy and soda will only lead to an energy crash later. It's better to eat the healthiest food you can afford, because that is the fuel that keeps you awake and attentive all day.