Easy student meal ideas from around the world

I would be in a parade with the “instant noodles are not the only option that we have!” sign in my hand (says a university student who still eats instant noodles weekly!). But as a student, life can be so monotonous sometimes, trying new simple dishes from all around the world really is a way to unwind and step out from a repetitive routine.

Trying new recipes, especially global dishes, would give you space and time to explore your culinary horizons! It's always fun to try dishes from another continent or country to delve into their local culture and explore how nutritional intake varies across the world.

I would like you to try these simple international dishes for breakfast or lunch! An easy grab-and-go meal to support our nutrition intake during the busy week!

From the east of the UK: South Korea - Kimbap

This simple dish is a perfect meal for a busy university student. This simple but balanced meal has protein, carbs, fats, and vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Not only are the ingredients easy to find, but making Kimbap only takes 30 minutes!

Kimbap has already been a meal-to-go since the early 20th century! The name Kimbap itself originated from rice and dried seaweed.

You will need: cooked rice, gimari (dried seaweed sheets), vegetables (spinach, carrots, cucumber), protein (egg omelette, ham or beef), and sesame oil for the finishing touch.

From the south of the UK: Italy - Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This classic never goes out of style. A savoury meal perfect for lunch and dinner, that would be a treat for the taste buds in the middle of a busy schedule. This meal should be on top of the list!

This comforting dish originated with Neapolitan sailors, a flavourful dish made with simple ingredients. A Mediterranean reminder that there's a beauty in simplicity! When it comes to the Mediterranean diet, olive oil always comes first, as it's rich in monounsaturated fats that are heat-resistant, making it a healthy option for cooking. High in antioxidants, they prevent strokes and heart disease. This super ingredient brings everything to the table!

You will need: spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and chilli peppers.

From the west of the UK: Mex-Tex - Black Bean Burrito

This high-protein, high-fibre dish could save our mornings! One black bean burrito a day saves the growling stomach away! This burrito wrap is so flexible to make, you can choose any veggies that you prefer and pair them with canned black beans, and ta-da, a nutritious meal in hand!

A black bean burrito is perfect for meal prep. 30 minutes of prepping, and you can have a week of balanced breakfasts! Make sure to wrap each with tin foil and store in a food plastic bag before storing it in the fridge.

You will need: black beans, any veggies, onion and bell peppers, wraps, and cheese.

Being a university student with a varied and healthy diet could benefit you in so many ways: better energy, a fresh mind, and a healthy body! So, which ones would you like to try?