Despite debates over whether Warren or West is actually “best” or if Bay State really offers healthier options, the range of food at BU’s dining halls is pretty standard. After the first few weeks with your meal plan you’ll have memorized all the stations from “Home Zone” to “Mongolian Grill,” and might be looking to mix it up a bit. If your taste buds have been feeling totally uninspired lately, check out some simple ways to revamp the menu and put those same ingredients to new use!
1. Parfait Possibilities
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Before I came to BU, I never knew how many food combos could be considered “parfaits.” From pear sorbet to chocolate mousse to rice pudding, the dining staff loves to create desserts in those adorable glass tumblers. Take their parfait pride a step further by adding some layers of your own,
whether it's blueberries from the breakfast bar or Coco Puffs from the cereal dispensers. One of my favorite “homemade” recipes is to combine yogurt, granola, frozen strawberries and shredded coconut for a one-of-a-kind breakfast treat.
2. Endless Salad Bar
Obviously the salad bar offers a bunch in terms of side dish options but it can also be the perfect way to add extra flavor and nutrition to burgers, sandwiches, and soups. Try customizing your toasted bagel with a spread of hummus and a few slices of cucumber and tomato for a meal that’s both healthy and filling!
3. Save Your (Star)Bucks
If you’re sick of spending all your dining points at the GSU Starbucks or waiting in line at Pavement every morning, try filling up your thermos at one of the cappuccino machines or coffee dispensers before your first class. True there aren’t as many fun flavor options as at a coffeehouse, but add a splash of chocolate milk or a shot of caramel from over by the ice cream toppings, and voilà, you’re now a barista!
4. Stir Up Your Stir-fry
A giant, steaming stone slab in the middle of the kitchen, the stir-fry stations just look exciting, and definitely offers tons of customizability. Usually there’s a selection of veggies laid out for you to mix and match, but you should also feel free to grab some extra toppings from the salad bar or chicken from the deli. The chefs will mix up whatever you give them, and don’t forget to ask about all the seasoning and sauce options!
5. Diversify the Dessert Table
I’m pretty sure the most common way for Terriers to gain the Freshmen 15 off their meal plans is by ending each meal with a stroll by the dessert table before heading out the door. My friends and I would always say we were “just going to look,” and suddenly find ourselves leaving with napkins full of peanut butter cookies and frosted scones. If you wanna prevent the temptation of the dessert trap, but still satisfy your sweet tooth, I suggest getting creative at other spots by mixing fruit salad with a little whipped cream from the waffle area, or replacing your fudge brownie with a handful of chocolate chips and vanilla yogurt.
So next time you swipe in and grab a plate, keep all your options in mind, and enjoy!
