There are not always many options when browsing around the dining hall. Even if there are, you may be sick of the same old options or just get hungry for a snack later. Using these few hacks can help you concoct some great new meals and snacks in minutes!
1. Trail Mix
Everyone has been desperate for a sweet but salty snack while they are sitting in the dorm rooms. But, did you know you could make it in advance from your dining hall ingredients? Use ice cream toppings such as nuts or chocolates, cereals such as Chex or Cheerios, and salad toppings such as dried cranberries in order to customize your own delicious snack mix!
2. Quesadillas
Photo by Nooreen Ismail
All it takes is a wrap or tortilla, cheese of your choice, and any types or veggies or meat you’d like to include. These ingredients could suffice as their own full meal if you do it right. You can either microwave this until the cheese is melted, or wrap the whole thing in tin foil and iron it to get those crispy edges in your own dorm room!
3. Make Your Own Ice Cream/Milkshakes
Photo by Brianna Sutherland
Sometimes the flavor of the day just isn’t cutting it. Take some soft-serve or hard-serve ice cream, mix in your favorite toppings such as chocolate chips or Oreos, and enjoy a whole new ice cream creation! If you’re feeling extra creative – add some milk and mix well in order to make a milkshake. Can you say HEAVEN?!
4. Buffalo Chicken Dip
Photo by Brianna Sutherland
Yes folks, it is true. The ingredients to a delicious buffalo chicken dip are sitting right in your dining hall. Simply take a to-go cup that is microwaveable, fill with shredded or chopped chicken, cheddar cheese, hot sauce and a dollop of cream cheese. Take this wonderful concoction and heat in the microwave for an amazing snack.
5. S’mores Dip
Photo by Dina Cheney
This delicious dessert has become an internet craze. You too can partake in this fad by grabbing a few marshmallows and chocolate chips from the ice cream toppings station and microwaving it to make a simple dip for crackers or cookies. Spoon University has a great “how to” in order to make it in a single serving.
6. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwiches
Photo by Brianna Sutherland
Here’s one that’s probably not available at your sandwich station! Take some bread used for toast or ask for some, then take peanut butter and sliced bananas to create an awesome alternative to the classic peanut butter and jelly. You can mix this snack up by toasting the bread before, adding chocolate chips or even honey and cinnamon!
7. Rice Treats
Photo by Brianna Sutherland
There are an abundant amount of different types of cereals and sometimes even marshmallows available in college dining halls. In order to make your own mini rice treat in a cup, combine rice cereal (or any type you prefer), a small amount of butter, and tons of marshmallows! Heat up the mixture and stir for classic snack. Check out this link to find out how to make it in a mug!
8. Breakfast Burrito
Photo courtesy of southernplate.com
If you’re able to get up for breakfast Saturday morning but know you wont be able to on Sunday, take a wrap and fill it with all of your favorite breakfast additives. Try including scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, peppers, onions, and sausage for starters. Take this mini burrito back to your room, store it in a container or plastic wrap, and microwave the next morning so you don’t even have to leave your room!
9. Create-Your-Own Soup
Photo by Brianna Sutherland
The soups offered in the dining hall are not always as tasty as we wish they were. Start with a cup of that basic soup – add veggies of all sorts, spices, meats, or cheeses in order to give it some life! I promise it will taste much better and be one of your favorite go-to meals. Utilize the to-go coffee cups to take it on the go or to heat up later in your room.