When you move into your college dorm, you may be at a loss as to what staples to keep in your pantry. With limited access to cooking appliances, it can be difficult to pick out things that are grab-and-go or simple to cook but still provide nutritional value. Thankfully, there are some options that have a long shelf life and can usually be eaten with minimal preparation. Dive into our college pantry essentials list to make sure you have what you need before, after, and in between the chaos of classes.
College Dorm Pantry Staples
Cup Noodles or Ramen
We had to start out with the essential. On its own, Cup Noodles and ramen may not be the most nutritional options but they are easy to make with the use of a microwave, Keruig, or hot water heater/kettle. Plus, there are small things you can add to increase the nutritional value like fresh vegetables, dried seaweed, or proteins.
Tea
The stress of college can take a toll on your body but at times a cup of tea can be your savior. There are plenty of herbal varieties out there to help with sleep, focus, energy, or just to enjoy on a cold winter day. Plus, as long as you have a way to get hot water, you’re set to enjoy a cuppa.
Cereal
Skip the sugary cereals and get a box full of oats, Cheerios, or other whole grain choices. Paying attention to what cereal you buy can help you get that extra energy boost you need in the morning just by taking the extra step to read the packaging. It helps if you have a mini fridge to store milk but dry cereal is also great for snacking during the day or well into the night.
Oatmeal
Just add hot water to your favorite flavor of oatmeal and you’ve got a bowl full of goodness in only a minute. Oatmeal is also always innovating to expand on flavors of savory, fruity, and to even include a bit of spice like cinnamon.
Granola
Granola is one of those ingredients that you can add to just about anything to make it better. Eat it on its own, make your own granola mix, pour it on top of yogurt…the options are truly endless. A lot of stores even carry granola clusters that are easier to eat than loose granola and some have nuts and dried fruits mixed in.
Snack/Protein Bars
When you need a little pick-me-up between classes, the ability to eat a small, handheld bar with protein or other nutrients makes all the difference. Brands like Kind, Rise, Quest, and Nature Valley provide a range of products that cover any flavor you could desire. Their products also come in different lines to focus on whatever you need the most like energy, protein, more.
Dried Fruit
While fruits can quickly go bad, dried fruits carry a lot of the same values with a longer shelf life. You can even combine your dried fruit choice with other pantry staples like cereal, granola, and even oatmeal. Plus, carrying one of these bags in your backpack makes sure you always have a healthy snack available.
Jams/Nut Butters/Bread
A simple go to are different types of sandwiches slathered in jams, jellies, or nut butters. You can even make your meal healthier by opting for a whole grain bread and organic spreads. Add some toppings of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats if you have a way of storing them and you’ve got a quick lunch or late study snack.
Story by Kylie Thomas / Photo Courtesy of No Revisions
Subscribe to TABLE Magazine‘s print edition.
