If you're a first-time apartment owner, the thought of having your own kitchen may sound enticing. However, as the semester starts up, the thought of having to make your own meals quickly grows terrifying.
Growing up, I lived a very healthy lifestyle, thanks to my mom who is a dietitian. When I was finally free to live on my own, I didn't realize how hard it would be for me to maintain good eating habits. I really struggled my first year of college. I told myself that the "Freshman 15" was inevitable and that it was nearly impossible to have a healthy diet while living in a dorm room.
This year, I got my first apartment and I realized that my eating habits had to change. So, I started researching easy, healthy recipes for people on a budget. While I will admit that it's not easy to constantly eat healthy at this busy stage in life, healthy foods really do contribute to a person's physical and mental well-being. So, with all that being said, here are 15 healthy recipes for first-time apartment owners:
1. Easy Omelet
These are a great boost of protein and you can add whatever kinds of vegetables and cheeses you'd like.
2. Overnight Blueberry Oatmeal
Overnight oats are perfect if you're not much of a morning person. All you have to do is make your breakfast at night, let it sit in the fridge, and in the morning it's ready to go!
3. Yogurt Parfait
These are simple, but still give you the nutrients you need to start your day off right. If possible, try using Greek yogurt instead, as this type of yogurt is low in sugar and packed with protein.
4. Banana Pancakes
I'm a sucker for pancakes, waffles, and muffins, but unfortunately, they can only be enjoyed in moderation. Instead, I've found that banana pancakes are a healthier option. Another plus? Bananas are one of the most inexpensive fruits.
5. Avocado Spread With Egg On Toast
Avocados contain monounsaturated fat, which will help stabilize your blood sugar and keep you full throughout the morning. Try ditching the butter or cream cheese and try this instead!
6. Pita Pocket Sandwiches
There are a variety of sandwiches you can try, but my favorite foods to pair with pita bread are hummus and veggies.
7. Chicken Salad Sandwich
If you're tired of preparing your chicken the same way, try making it into a sandwich. You can also add lettuce, tomatoes, raisins or cranberries for extra flavor. Make sure you use wheat bread to get the healthiest option.
8. Grilled Margherita Sandwich
While researching recipes, I found a pretty satisfying alternative for Margherita pizza. While I wish I could eat pizza or grilled cheese sandwiches every day, this recipe is a bit more nutritious.
9. Tuna Melts
I don't know about you, but I feel like tuna is completely a hit or miss. If you do enjoy tuna fish, these melts are awesome. They're simple and you still get the nutrients and protein you would get from any kind of fish or meat.
10. Wraps
Wraps are perfect if you're on the go or have left overs. There are a variety of wraps that you can make with just a few simple ingredients.
11. Chicken And Rice Burrito
Burritos are one of my favorite foods for so many reasons: the canned beans last a long time, the ingredients are super cheap, and they're really nutritious. I like to heat up a can of refried beans or black beans, heat up a tortilla, spoon the beans onto the tortilla, and then add some cheese. You can leave it like that, but it's even more nutritious if you add chicken, rice, or vegetables.
12. Vegetarian Fajitas
Fajitas are great because they're so versatile. You can make them with any meat you choose, but they're also a great option for vegetarians.
13. Turkey Burger
I like to buy my turkey burgers frozen because they're pretty quick and easy to cook! Simply cook the burger in a skillet on the stovetop for the recommended time, then top it off with a slice of cheese, tomato, lettuce, and avocado.
14. Vegetable And Parmesan Pasta
I've tried to add a variety of foods to this list, but in all honesty, I could live off of carbs. Pasta, bread, dough, you name it. With that being said, there are a few steps you can take to make your pasta a bit healthier. One option is to use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. In addition, you could try to substitute your butter with olive oil. Another option is to use less cheese than the recipe says (I personally would not do this, but if you want to be healthier, I really respect you). Lastly, fresh vegetables can make this meal a lot more nutritious.
15. Shrimp Scampi With Linguine
I was intimidated by the idea of making this dish, but it's fairly simple! I like to buy my shrimp already cooked and frozen to save time. First, I run the shrimp under water so they defrost. Then, I coat a baking sheet with olive oil and arrange the shrimp on there. I like to sprinkle some salt and pepper on top, too. Finally, I put the tray into the oven for about ten minutes. When the pasta and butter sauce is finished, all you really have to do is combine everything.
While I tried to list numerous foods you could try making for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it never hurts to reach out to your family and friends for cooking advice, too. But if you're like me, I hope they don't ask you to cook for them the next time you're home or the next time they pay a visit.
