Finals Meals Don’t Have to be Unhealthy
As the fall semester comes to a close, cool weather is setting in; stress is running high; and your cash flow from that summer job is running pretty dry. With finals just around the corner, your stress eating is probably in full force or at least mine is. Although the cold weather and endless studying can make you crave some greasy fries or sugary desserts, what you eat actually affects how well you study, so step away from that jumbo bag of potato chips. Instead, fuel your body and your mind with healthy ingredients this finals week with these healthy sweet potato and tuna burgers.
Sweet Potato and Tuna Burger: Sounds Weird, Tastes Amazing
These sweet potato and tuna burgers may sound a little strange, but don’t be fooled. These burgers are nutritious, easy and quick to prepare, and have ingredients that you probably already have in the back of your cupboard. Along with having basic ingredients, this meal is also easy on the wallet for those trying to save money before the holidays as well.
Sweet potatoes are packed with calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C while tuna is rich in mega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, selenium, and Vitamin D. Tuna also provides an important dietary source of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids needed for good brain function. These sweet potato and tuna burgers are good for your body, mind, and wallet. What more could you ask for?
College students may not have time or money for extensive grocery shopping around finals week, I know I don’t. I came home one night after work, starving as usual, and I looked in my pantry expecting to be disappointed. However, this recipe is the product of the 5 ingredients I had on hand, and oh boy, it did not disappoint.
Sweet Potato and Tuna Burger
Ingredients
Instructions
Wash your sweet potato and poke holes in it with a fork in order to release pressure as it cooks. Place it in the microwave and cook for 7-9 minutes. Remove the skin once cooked.
Place the sweet potato and egg in a medium-sized bowl and combine until you get the desired texture. I like to leave a few potato chunks for a better texture.
Once combined, add the dry ingredients and mix. The chicken taco seasoning can be swapped out for any other desired spices.
Heat the oil on medium while you form your patties. Form the patties with damp hands to avoid having them stick to your hands. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side depending on the amount of crispness you want.
Remove from heat and enjoy! Top these burgers with your desired toppings such as spicy mustard, cheese, roasted tomatoes, or fresh herbs. For these Mexican burgers, I used sour cream and some homemade salsa.
So happy finals week everyone, and enjoy the much needed winter break. It’s almost time to de-stress and eat as much of your parents’ home cooking as you possibly can. But for now fuel your body and mind with these delicious, nutritious, and affordable sweet potato and tuna burgers.