Living in rsidence halls and apartments brings out the creativity in all of us. Whether it be optimizing space or having peanut butter on a spoon for dinner, one must make do. Sometimes, you just aren’t feeling the dining halls or the meal times don’t align with your schedule. With no kitchen and a mere microwave, one must be resourceful. However, you can create some really awesome meals for any time of day in that little watt machine.

Breakfast

Breakfast is arguably the most important, and my favorite, meal of the day. Having a bite in the morning when you’re rushing out the door to make it to that 8 a.m. can make just the right start to a day. You can start off by using your favorite mug. Yup, that’s right, a mug. Below is the recipe for an omelet in a mug.

Omelet in a mug: protein-packed and surprisingly delicious

What you need: a microwave-safe mug, 1 teaspoon of butter, toppings of choice and two eggs

Steps:

1. Add 1 teaspoon butter to a microwave-safe coffee cup. Crack eggs into said cup.
2. Whisk with a fork until well mixed. (Add cheese here if you want!)
3. Microwave for one minute.
4. Sprinkle with desired toppings (salsa, spinach, anything else on hand!)
5. Microwave 30-60 seconds more or until the egg is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Lunch & Dinner

These are a couple of meals that hit the spot at any time of the day.

Anything Goes Rice Bowl: my go-to when there was only “light lunch” at Ikenberry Dining Hall

What you need: minute rice or leftover rice, black beans, avocado, salsa, cheese and anything else in the fridge that might be good

Steps:

1. Follow directions to make minute rice or heat up leftover rice.
2. Toss in toppings of choice, and finish with cheese.
3. Microwave for an extra 15-30 seconds to warm up toppings.
4. Mix together, and enjoy.

Microwave Nachos: a readily customizable crowd pleaser

What you need: microwave-safe plate, tortilla chips, shredded cheese and toppings of choice.

Steps:

1. Scatter chips on plate and top with cheese and any other ingredients which should be warmed.
2. Microwave plate and toppings for about 1-2 minutes, depending on the microwave.
3. Remove from microwave, and add cold toppings like sour cream, guacamole and salsa.

Dessert

Lastly, for when that sweet tooth gets the best of you after a late-night study session, here is a salty-sweet popcorn recipe.

Sweet-and-saltypopcorn: the most addicting late-night snack.

What you need: your favorite microwave popcorn, pretzels, M&M’s and Chex Mix or any other sweet and salty bite-size treats

Steps:

1. Follow the directions on your popcorn bag as normal.
2. Add in M&M’s, Chex Mix and other sweet and salty snacks like peanuts or chocolate chips.
3. Enjoy!

All of these recipes are my go-to’s for dorm living and can be made in under 10 minutes!

Christine is a junior in LAS.

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