Really Cheap Meal Ideas For University Students On A Tight Budget

We've curated a collection of wallet-friendly ideas for what to buy at the supermarket for you to make into a simple meal. Some students may not be big into cooking or not have had much experience so these ideas are also really easy to accomplish such as omelettes, stir fries and soups.

When you're a university student on a tight budget, it's important to find affordable meal ideas that are nutritious, satisfying, and easy on the wallet. Here are some really cheap meal ideas for students:

Rice And Beans

This classic combination is not only budget-friendly but also provides a good source of protein and fibre. You can cook a large batch and portion it out for multiple meals. Add some spices, vegetables, or canned tomatoes to enhance the flavour.

Pasta With Simple Sauces

Pasta is a versatile and affordable option. Pair it with simple sauces like tomato sauce, garlic and olive oil, or a basic vegetable sauce using inexpensive vegetables like onions, carrots, and bell peppers.

Stir-fry

Stir-frying is a quick and economical cooking method. Use affordable vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and frozen mixed vegetables. Add some protein like tofu or eggs, and season with soy sauce or other affordable condiments. Frozen vegetables and legumes are often cheaper than fresh produce and can be just as nutritious. Use them in stir-fries, soups, or as side dishes to complement your meals.

Omelettes Or Scrambled Eggs

Eggs are an inexpensive source of protein. Whip up a quick omelette or scrambled eggs with vegetables like onions, spinach, or bell peppers. Serve it with some toast or rice for a filling meal.

Soups

Soups are an economical way to use up ingredients and can be very nourishing. Make vegetable soup using affordable vegetables, legumes, and stock cubes. You can also make bean soups or lentil soups for added protein.

Salads

Create salads using inexpensive ingredients like lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and canned beans. Add a simple dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings.

Baked Potatoes

Potatoes are cheap and versatile. Bake them in the oven or microwave and top them with budget-friendly toppings like beans, cheese, canned tuna, or sour cream.

Sandwiches

Make sandwiches with affordable ingredients like canned tuna, eggs, deli meats, or cheap ream cheese. Add some vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumbers for freshness.

Pizza

Make your own pizza using affordable ingredients. Buy pre-made pizza dough. Top it with tomato sauce, cheese, and your choice of budget-friendly toppings like onions, peppers, or canned pineapple - controversial!

Canned Goods

You can buy several premade items in cans such as chilli or macaroni cheese that you can add to nachos or baked potatoes. Some supermarkets also offer pies, stews, casseroles, and mixed vegetables in tins. Tinned vegetables can be added to bulk up pasta sauces and tinned fruit can be added to porridge or desserts. Tinned fish such as tuna or mackerel are also good for protein on a budget.

Planning your meals in advance and creating a grocery list can help you stay on track and avoid impulse purchases. Being thrifty doesn't mean compromising on taste or nutrition – it's about getting creative and finding ingenious ways to make the most of your resources.

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