Sunday Night Football officially kicked off this year's football season on September 11th. The start off football means having some friends over, sitting around the TV and having some good food. Sometimes, though, in college, it's hard to prepare good football food with your limited resources. Here are some ideas that are easy too do, delicious, and can be done in college living spaces.
1. Pigs in a Blanket
I'll admit, this one can be tricky if you're living in a dorm, since you need an oven. However, many dorm buildings do have "kitchens" in the common areas, usually the main floor, with an oven for residents to use.
What you'll need:
Hot Dogs (you can either cut them in half or get mini hot dogs"
Crescent Rolls (you can buy these in tubes, and get generic to save some "dough")
Cheese (optional)
What you do:
Preheat the oven according to the crescent roll packaging. If you have full-sized hot dogs you can cut them in half to get a more finger-food size. Roll your hot dogs in the crescent roll dough. If desired, roll them up with some cheese! Cook according to the packaging, usually about 12-14 minutes. Enjoy!
2. Buffalo Chicken Dip
This one is always a crowd pleaser! To make this with the least amount of steps, use a slow cooker, which you can get for under $10 at Wal-Mart. I bought one and it has served me many quick and easy meals.
What You'll Need:
2 Packages (8oz) Cream Cheese
Chicken, cooked and shredded (it's easiest to buy canned chicken! Two cans of 10oz should do!)
1 Cup Ranch dressing
3/4 Cup Pepper Sauce/Hot Sauce (such as Frank's!)
Shredded Cheese (Pretty much as much as you want)
What you do:
Put all ingredients into slow cooker, and heat on high for about 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. When done, all ingredients should be well mixed melted together, and at desired temperature. Serve with chips of your choice and enjoy!
3. Cheesy Salsa Dip
Probably the easiest of the bunch, and most accessible!
What You'll Need:
16oz package of Velveeta cheese
a jar of your choice of mild salsa
What you do:
Cut the cheese into cubes and put into a microwave safe serving bowl. Pour in the salsa. Microwave them for about 5 minutes, stopping every 2 minutes or so to stir the ingredients. Serve with chips and enjoy!
4. Sweet Strawberry Salad
If you're looking for a healthier alternative that's still delicious, this is a must. I could eat this every day of my life.
What you'll need:
Fresh Strawberries
Baby Spinach
Feta Cheese
Candied Pecans
Vinaigrette salad dressing, preferably strawberry
What you do:
Wash and cut strawberries. Put all ingredients in a big salad bowl and toss until mixed well. Enjoy!
5. Baked French Fries
Easy, delicious, and however you like them. Just need an oven!
What you need:
Potatoes
Olive or Canola Oil
Seasonings of your choice
Cheese (if desired)
What you do:
Preheat the oven to 450. Wash and slice potatoes at a moderate thickness. Lightly coat the potatoes with oil and place on baking sheet. Add desired seasoning. I suggest Lawry's seasoning salt, garlic powder, and Old Bay. If desired, sprinkle cheese on your fries. Grated parmesan adds great texture and flavor! Cook for around 25 minutes or until they look golden brown and moderately crispy. Enjoy!